Cytomorphological changes of oral mucosal cells among smokeless tobacco users in low and middle-income country settings: new findings from Pakistan
2024

Changes in Oral Cells of Smokeless Tobacco Users in Pakistan

Sample size: 100 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Hassan Sabreen, Sifat Ayesha, Munib Mohammad, Saeed Saleha, Nisa Waqar U., Durrani Sofia Haider, Rahim Abid, Ullah Naeem, Afaq Saima

Primary Institution: Saidu College of Dentistry, Swat, Pakistan

Hypothesis

This study investigates cytomorphological changes in oral mucosal cells among smokeless tobacco users and their association with gender and age groups.

Conclusion

The study found significant dysplastic changes in oral mucosal cells among smokeless tobacco users, which could aid in early diagnosis and management of oral lesions.

Supporting Evidence

  • 46% of cases exhibited micronuclei, indicating significant cellular changes.
  • Micronuclei were more prevalent in the 51-60 age group.
  • Gender analysis showed higher rates of micronuclei in females compared to males.
  • Logistic regression indicated significant associations between age and cytomorphological changes.

Takeaway

Using smokeless tobacco can change the cells in your mouth, which might lead to serious health problems. It's important to catch these changes early.

Methodology

This cross-sectional study collected mucosal samples from smokeless tobacco users and examined them for dysplastic changes using cytological smears.

Potential Biases

Potential biases may arise from the exclusion criteria and the specific demographic of participants from a private dental hospital.

Limitations

The study did not conduct a formal sample size calculation and used non-probability sampling, which may limit generalizability.

Participant Demographics

76% male and 24% female participants, aged 20-60 years, with a mean age of 45.89 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.005

Confidence Interval

95% CI: 0.22 to 5.83 for micronuclei; 95% CI: 9.23 to 30.75 for nuclear budding.

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/s12903-024-05220-7

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