Oral mucosal lesions: findings from the Australian National Survey of Adult Oral Health

Background The prevalence of oral mucosal lesions ( OML s) and factors associated with these has not previously been reported in the Australian population. This study aimed to report on the prevalence of OML s in Australian adults and to evaluate their association with socio‐demographic factors. Methods This study utilized data from the Australian National Survey of Adult Oral Health 2004–06, which employs a multi‐stage, stratified random sample selection procedure. Information on socio‐demographics, smoking and presence of OML s were collected using telephone interview, self‐reported questionnaires and comprehensive oral examination. A multivariate regression model was generated to estimate effect of factors on the prevalence of non‐ulcerated OML s. Results A total of 3551 dentate adult Australians had complete data for this analysis. Over 20% of study participants presented with an OML on the day of examination. The prevalence of suspected malignancy was less than 1% and over 17% for non‐ulcerated OML s. Prevalence of non‐ulcerated OML s was associated with age, gender, residential location, household income and smoking. Conclusions The study reported that epidemiological survey can provide useful information on OML s. Certain population groups had a higher risk of having the condition. Preventing smoking uptake and smoking cessation can reduce the prevalence of OML s in the population.