Oral health status and pattern of tobacco use among Tuberculosis patients

Objectives: Our study aimed to assess the oral health status and pattern of tobacco use among Tuberculosis (TB) tobacco patients visiting a tertiary care hospital. Material and Methods: The study was conducted on 100 TB patients using tobacco and undergoing anti-tubercular therapy, who were willing to participate in the study and met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Demographic profiles, oral examination findings, and data related to tobacco use were recorded. Results: The most common age group of TB tobacco patients was between 61 and 70 years. Red/white patches were observed in 70 patients, with the most common site being buccal mucosa of the oral cavity. Seventy-four patients used smokeless tobacco, among which 38 were chewing tobacco, 29 used tobacco mishri, and 7 used gutka. Peer pressure was found to be the most common factor responsible for the start of tobacco use. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for intervention strategies for tobacco use among TB patients to improve their oral health status.