Periodontitis and Oral Cancer risk: a case– control study

Background: The prevalence of oral cancer is rising in India. Oral habits, lifestyle and lack of awareness are etiological factors associated with oral cancer. As the disease is multifactorial in nature, exploring the factors related to oral cancer may contribute to prevention, early diagnosis and treatment planning. Periodontal disease and its association with risk of developing oral cancer have been suggested in literature. The present study explores the relationship between oral cancer and severity of periodontal disease. Methods: Two twenty patients (One Hundred and ten diagnosed with oral cancer and one hundred and ten without oral cancer) were recruited in this case-control study. A questionnaire was validated to determine the risk factors associated with oral cancer. Periodontal health status was recorded. Association was determined using chi-square and Mann–Whitney tests. Results: Correlation between oral cancer incidence and demographic factors like age, sex, education and oral habits was found significant. Oral cancer incidencewith periodontal disease was found to be 61.2%. Conclusion: Periodontitis can be considered as a risk factor for oral cancer. Patient with periodontal diseases should be monitored regularly and lifestyle modifications should be suggested to minimize oral cancer risks.