The Occurrence of Potentially Malignant Disorders in the Oral Cavity: A Survey from Bagru-Khurd of Rural Jaipur, Rajasthan

Background: India accounts for about 33% of the world’s oral cancer as a result of the prevailing unhealthy oral hygiene and detrimental oral habits, such as the consumption of smoked or smokeless tobacco. The objective of this study is to determine the occurrence of premalignant lesions and conditions in the oral cavity among the different age groups and gender in the Bagru-Khurd region of rural Jaipur (Rajasthan) and to assess the degree of awareness of the ill–effects of consuming smoked or smokeless tobacco. Material and Methods: In this study 114 patients presenting premalignant lesions or conditions were included. They had been reported in the OPD records of the Rajasthan Dental College and Hospital. Results: Predominantly potentially malignant disorders were observed within the age group of 30-60 years, among which smoker’s palate lesions were most predominant. Besides, Leukoplakia and Tobacco pouch keratosis were also presented in some. Oral Submucous Fibrosis (OSF) and smoker’s melanosis as premalignant conditions were presented in a few. Conclusion: Although the elderly and most women were aware of the ill-effects of tobacco consumption, several patients were unaware