Burden of Oral Precancerous Lesions and Associated Factors among Truck Drivers in Kolkata, West Bengal

Introduction: India accounts for a significant share of global smokeless tobacco users. Tobacco consumption, both smoking and chewing, is associated with oral mucosal lesions that may progress to cancer. Truck drivers are a vulnerable group due to occupational stress and high-risk habits. Objectives: To estimate the prevalence of oral precancerous lesions among truck drivers in Kolkata and identify associated factors. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 171 truck drivers selected by systematic random sampling from December 2022 to February 2023. Data were collected using a pretested interview schedule followed by oral examination. Data were analyses using SPSS version 24. Results: The median age was 37 (IQR 30, 55) years. All participants were male; 157 (91.8%) belonged to lower and middle socioeconomic classes. Tobacco use was reported in 68.4%, alcohol use in 69 (40.4%), and 24 (14.0%) had oral precancerous lesions, with leucoplakia being most common. Multivariable logistic regression identified poor oral hygiene (aOR = 6.29; p = 0.001), younger age (aOR = 0.012; p = 0.001), tobacco use (aOR = 24.12; p = 0.003), and years of truck driving (aOR = 1.41; p < 0.0001) as significant predictors. Conclusion: The study found a 14.6% prevalence of oral precancerous lesions, significantly associated with tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, younger age, and longer driving duration. Targeted workplace screening, oral health education, and cessation support are recommended for early detection and prevention among high-risk occupational groups.