Clinical aspects of oral cancer and potentially malignant disorders in South and Southeast Asia

BACKGROUND: Oral cancer and Oral Potentially Malignant Disorders (OPMD) are major health problems in South and Southeast Asia. AIMS: To describe and discuss the clinical aspects of Oral Cancer and OPMD in South and Southeast Asia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Literature review of concepts and data over the last four decades. DISCUSSION: Asian countries account for about two-thirds of new cases of oral cancer (OC) globally, with the highest burden in the South and Southeast Asian countries, including Pakistan and India. Habits, dietary patterns, socioeconomic status, and access to routine dental care play a crucial role in defining the demographics and clinical presentation of OC in these regions and significantly influence the morbidity and mortality of the disease. This region sees…