CORRELATION BETWEEN FAGERSTRÖM TEST FOR NICOTINE DEPENDENCE AND PREVALENCE OF ORAL MUCOSAL LESIONS: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Tobacco use is a major risk factor for oral mucosal lesions (OMLs), including potentially malignant disorders. The
Fagerstrom Test for Nicotine Dependence (FTND) is a tool for assessing nicotine dependence. This study investigates
the potential correlation between FTND scores and the prevalence of OMLs. The present study aims to determine if
a correlation exists between FTND scores, indicating nicotine dependence levels, and the prevalence of Oral mucosal
lesions. Patient records from a Dental Information Archiving System Software were analyzed to identify individuals
with tobacco use habits. FTND scores were calculated to assess nicotine dependence levels, and oral mucosal changes
were recorded. Male patients aged 18 years above with a history of cigarette smoking and tobacco usage, 70
participants in each group were included. The mean age of the patients was 37.6 +/- 13.2 years with an age range of
18 to 75 years. Individuals with more severe oral mucosal lesions tend to have higher scores on the Fagerstrom Test
for Nicotine Dependence, suggesting a stronger nicotine addiction. A weak, positive correlation between Age and
Mucosal Changes was observed (r = 0.089). A moderate, negative correlation between Mucosal Changes and Tobacco
Cessation Form (r = -0.279). This correlation was statistically significant at the 0.01 level (p = 0.001). The present
study highlights a link between nicotine dependence and oral lesions, emphasizing the need for targeted intervention
toward habit cessation.