ASSESSMENT OF RISK FACTORS AND SCREENING OF ORAL CANCER BY VISUAL EXAMINATION OF ORAL CAVITY IN KOLAR- A COMMUNITY BASED CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: In India, oral cancer had become an increasing public health concern, mainly due to habits like chewing tobacco and areca nut. Detecting it early made a big difference in treatment and outcomes. One of the easiest and most affordable ways to identify the early signs was through a simple Visual Oral Examination (OVE). Objectives: This study aimed to identify risk factors linked to oral cancer and to screen adults over 30 years of age in the Kolar district. It also aimed to guide people with suspicious findings to the proper medical care. Methods: A total of 423 individuals aged above 30 years from both urban and rural areas of Kolar were selected through a random sampling method between July 2023 and December 2024. Data was collected using a semi-structured questionnaire, followed by a basic oral Visual Examination. The data was analysed with SPSS, considering p-values below 0.05 as statistically significant. Results: Nearly 26% of the participants showed early signs of oral changes that required further evaluation. The prevalence was higher among individuals with habits like smoking, using smokeless tobacco, or placing quid in the mouth. These signs were also more common among people from rural or economically weaker sections. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of early screening and awareness campaigns to combat oral cancer. Strengthening public health interventions, especially in rural and low-income communities, can help reduce the burden of this preventable disease.