Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the association between common risk factors, their duration of exposure, and the histopathological grading of oral epithelial dysplasia (OED.

Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional prospective study was conducted on 60 histologically confirmed cases of OED diagnosed over one year. Patients were evaluated for risk factors such as tobacco habits, alcohol consumption, and exposure duration using a standardized proforma. Biopsy specimens were processed and graded into mild, moderate, or severe dysplasia. Statistical analysis, including Chi-square tests, was performed to assess the associations, with a significance level set at p < 0.05.

Results: The study population included 45 males and 15 females (3:1 ratio) aged 30–60 years. Buccal mucosa was the most affected site (35%), and Leukoplakia was the predominant clinical presentation (66.6%). Histopathological grading revealed mild (36.6%), moderate (31.7%), and severe (31.7%) dysplasia. Betel nut quid with tobacco was the most frequently associated risk factor across all grades, while its combination with smoking correlated significantly with severe dysplasia. Longer exposure durations (44–50 years) were strongly associated with severe dysplasia (p < 0.05).

Conclusion: This study highlights the significant association between risk factors, exposure duration, and OED grades. Betel nut quid with tobacco emerged as a critical risk factor, with smoking compounding its severity. These findings emphasize the need for targeted prevention strategies and early intervention to reduce the progression to malignancy.

Keywords: Oral epithelial dysplasia, Risk factors, Tobacco, Betel nut, Alcohol, Histopathological grading.

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Dr. Sanjoy Krishna Handique

Department of Pathology, Gauhati Medical College and Hospital, Narakasur Hilltop, GMC Hospital Rd, Bhangagarh, Guwahati, Assam 780132