Abstract :
Background: Cancer is a major health problem in Basrah. Oral cancer is an important component which
deserves exploration.
Objective: To study the incidence of oral malignancy in Basrah.
Materials and Methods: Available data were obtained from the cancer registry in Basrah, a
histopathological research facility of Al-Sadder Teaching Hospital, Al-Basrah General Hospital and
College of Dentistry in Basrah.
Results: In Basrah from 2005 to 2017, there were 304 cases identified of oral malignancy in various
sources, 152 cases for both male and female. Squamous cell carcinoma accounted for 82.2%. The Tongue
is the most frequent site followed by buccal mucosa, lower jaw then the upper jaw.
Conclusion: No solid evidence exists regarding the incidence of oral malignancy in Basrah governorate and
the present information represent only an attempt to measure the extent and characteristics of oral malignant
diseases. Comprehensive cancer registration is highly required supported by accurate information on new
cases and on cancer-related mortality. The current level of registered oral malignant diseases is likely to be
underestimated.
Keyword :
Oral malignancy, Squamous cell carcinoma, Incidence, Basrah, 2005-2017.