Study of Oral Mucosal Lesion Prevalence Among Tobacco Users at a Referral Hospital in Kaduna State

Tobacco-associated oral mucosal lesions are precancerous conditions that require early detection to prevent malignant transformation, and their documentation among tobacco users in North West Nigeria is a public health priority. This study examined the prevalence and types of tobacco-associated oral mucosal lesions among current tobacco users attending Barau Dikko Teaching Hospital, Kaduna, Kaduna State, North West Nigeria. A cross-sectional clinical study was conducted among 240 tobacco users (smokers and smokeless tobacco users) presenting to the hospital. Detailed oral mucosal examination was performed by two calibrated dentists, recording the type, site, size, and features of any lesions. Smoking history, smokeless tobacco type and duration, alcohol use, and oral hygiene status were documented. Results showed that 54.2 percent had at least one oral mucosal lesion. Leukoplakia was the most prevalent lesion (27.5 percent), followed by smoker's palate (22.9 percent) and submucous fibrosis in smokeless tobacco users (8.3 percent). Heavy smokers of 20 or more cigarettes daily showed significantly higher lesion prevalence. Smokeless tobacco users (toombak/snuff) demonstrated significantly higher rates of submucous fibrosis. Duration of tobacco use above 10 years was significantly associated with lesion severity. Potentially malignant lesions warranting biopsy were identified in 14.6 percent. Recommendations include routine oral cancer screening at healthcare facilities, tobacco cessation counselling integration into primary care, and public awareness campaigns on tobacco-related oral disease in Kaduna State.

Keywords: oral mucosal lesions, tobacco use, leukoplakia, oral cancer screening, Kaduna State