A new study released in Evidence-Based Dentistry has identified a link between age, gender, and development of oral cancer.

Kunaal Dhingra from All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi investigated the potential links in a study of 200 patients (regardless of periodontal and adverse habits including smoking and alcohol) between 18-90 years old. Of the patients in the study, 100 had confirmed oral cancer (oral squamous cell carcinoma).

To collect data, Kunaal used questionnaires featuring socio-economic and lifestyle risk factors. Oral status (periodontal stage, clinical attachment loss, periodontal pocket depth, bleeding on probing, Silness-Loe plaque index, and decayed, missing, and filled teeth [DMFT] index) was also taken. Both sets of statistics were then compared.

Results showed a clear correlation between age, gender and development of oral cancer. In terms of lifestyle factors, the study found a correlation between alcohol consumption and oral cancer development. No correlation was found between smoking habits and passive smoking with oral cancer development.

The data also revealed a significant correlation between the incidence of oral cancer and the stage of periodontitis.

Author: