Prevalence of oral mucosal lesions among Pre-University students of Kodava population in Coorg District.

BACKGROUND To know the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions among Pre-University students of Kodava population in Coorg District. This survey also aims to find out tobacco or other habits among students and related changes in the oral environment. MATERIALS & METHODS 900 PU students of Kodava population were included. 300 students from each taluk were randomly selected, after the consent. Questions were asked to reveal the systemic diseases, abnormal oral habits, use of tobacco &alcohol. Each student was examined for oral mucosal lesions and recording was based on WHO oral health assessment form. RESULTS Oral mucosal lesions were similar to studies done in other population but with a slightly higher frequency of few lesions. Incidence of substance use was noted, but with no signs of significant changes in the oral mucosa. CONCLUSION Prevalence of oral mucosal lesions varies among each population indicating the need for study in each population to format health policy. Substance use was noted among 16-17 yr age group indicates the need for early preventive measures among adolescents to avoid future serious health problems. How to cite this article: Sandeepa N C, Jaishankar H P, Sharath C B, Abhinetra M S, Darshan D D, Nappalli D. Prevalence of oral mucosal lesions among Pre-University students of Kodava population in Coorg District. J Int Oral Health 2013; 5(3):35-41.