Prevalence of oral potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer risk among industrial workers in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh, South India: A cross-sectional study

Objectives: To assess the prevalence of oral cancer and oral potentially malignant disorders (OPMDs) among industrial workers and evaluate their association with tobacco consumption. Methods: A six-month cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,000 industrial workers aged 28 years and above. Data on demographics, health status, and tobacco habits were collected using structured questionnaires. Clinical oral examinations were performed and suspected lesions were subjected to biopsy and histopathological evaluation. Statistical analysis included chi-square tests and regression analysis to determine associations between tobacco use and OPMDs. Results: Among the study population, 13.4% exhibited oral lesions with a strong association with tobacco use (p < 0.05). Oral submucous fibrosis was predominantly observed among smokeless tobacco users, whereas leukoplakia and erythroleukoplakia were more common among smokers. Higher prevalence was observed among males and individuals aged 30–49 years. Dual tobacco users showed the highest odds of lesion development (OR = 5.75). Conclusions: The findings highlight a substantial burden of OPMDs among industrial workers and emphasize the need for targeted workplace screening and preventive strategies.