Prevalence of Oral Premalignant Lesions in the Adult Bangladeshi Population: A Cross-Sectional Study at Dhaka Dental College and Hospital, Dhaka, Bangladesh

Background: Oral premalignant lesions (OPMLs) represent early mucosal alterations with the potential for malignant transformation into oral squamous cell carcinoma. Bangladesh has a high prevalence of tobacco use, betel quid chewing, and other high-risk habits, which significantly contribute to oral mucosal pathology. However, comprehensive institutional data on the prevalence of oral premalignant lesions among adults remain
limited.

Objective: To determine the prevalence and clinicodemographic characteristics of oral premalignant lesions in the adult Bangladeshi population attending a tertiary dental hospital.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 800 adult patients attending the Department of Periodontology and Oral Pathology at Dhaka Dental College and Hospital. Participants aged ≥18 years were selected through systematic random sampling. Detailed history regarding demographic variables and risk habits (smoking, smokeless tobacco, betel quid chewing, alcohol) was recorded. Clinical oral examination was performed according to WHO diagnostic criteria. Suspected lesions were confirmed histopathologically where indicated. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results: Among 800 participants, 148 individuals were diagnosed with oral premalignant lesions, yielding a prevalence of 18.5%. The most common lesion was leukoplakia (8.6%), followed by oral submucous fibrosis (5.2%), erythroplakia (2.1%), and oral lichen planus with dysplastic features (2.6%). Males showed higher prevalence (22.4%) compared to females (14.1%). Tobacco and betel quid consumption demonstrated significant association with lesion occurrence (p<0.05).

Conclusion: The prevalence of oral premalignant lesions among adults in this tertiary care setting is considerable. Tobacco and betel quid use remain major contributing factors. Early detection through routine screening and public health interventions targeting habit cessation are essential to reduce oral cancer burden
in Bangladesh.

Keywords: Oral Premalignant Lesion, Leukoplakia, Oral Submucous Fibrosis, Bangladesh, Prevalence