Assessment of Awareness and Knowledge Regarding Tobacco-Related Oral Cancer and Potentially Malignant Disorders Among Dental Patients

Abstract Background: Tobacco use is a leading risk factor for oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs). However, awareness of these conditions is often limited, which can delay early detection and preventive actions. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and patterns of tobacco use, sociodemographic associations, and awareness of oral cancer and OPMDs among dental OPD attendees. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 155 participants visiting a dental OPD. Structured questionnaires captured information on sociodemographic characteristics, tobacco use, awareness of oral cancer and OPMDs, knowledge of risk factors, and preventive behaviors. Associations between tobacco use and gender, age, and education were analyzed using chi-square tests. Results: Overall, 35.5% of participants reported using tobacco, with males showing significantly higher prevalence than females (44.4% vs. 23.1%; χ² = 6.62, p = 0.010). Tobacco use was inversely related to education: 88.9% of individuals with less than 10th-grade education used tobacco, compared to only 8.3% of postgraduates (χ² = 42.31, p < 0.001). Tobacco consumption increased with age, reaching 63.2% among those aged 60–80 years (χ² = 10.07, p = 0.018). Awareness of oral cancer was high (99.3%), but only 21.3% of participants were aware of OPMDs, and just 27.1% had ever performed a self-oral examination. Media, family, and schools were the most frequently cited sources of information, and participants preferred public talks, school-based programs, and newspaper campaigns for improving awareness. Conclusion: Tobacco use remains common among dental OPD attendees, particularly among men, older adults, and those with lower educational levels. While awareness of oral cancer is generally high, knowledge of OPMDs and engagement in preventive behaviors are inadequate. Focused educational programs and community-based strategies are essential to promote early detection and reduce the burden of tobacco-related oral diseases.