Research Article

The prevalence of oral mucosa lesion and oral behavior in Lao PDR

Abstract

Background: Oral mucosal lesions (OMLs) are an important oral health problem that may range from benign conditions to potentially malignant disorders and oral cancer. In Lao PDR, oral health problems make influenced by socioeconomic conditions, limited access to dental services, and health-risk behaviors such as betel quid chewing, tobacco smoking, and alcohol consumption. However, comprehensive information on the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions and related health behaviors in the Lao population remains limited. Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of oral mucosal lesions and evaluate oral health behaviors and their relationship with selected health-risk behaviors among the population of Lao PDR. Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among Lao residents aged 16 years and older. A total of 384 participants were included. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and clinical oral examinations performed by calibrated dental professionals. The questionnaire assessed sociodemographic characteristics, oral hygiene practices, dental attendance, betel quid chewing, alcohol consumption, and tobacco smoking. Oral mucosal lesions were identified and classified according to standard clinical criteria. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-square tests, Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: Among the 384 participants, 154 (40.1%) were male and 230 (59.9%) were female, with a mean age of 41.7 years. Oral conditions were reported in 29 participants (7.6%), while 355 (92.4%) had no reported oral condition. Betel quid use was reported by 14 participants (3.4%), alcohol consumption by 147 (38.3%), and tobacco smoking by 34 (8.9%). The study examined the relationship between these health-risk behaviors and the presence of oral mucosal lesions. Conclusion: The findings indicate that oral mucosal lesions and associated health-risk behaviors are relevant oral health concerns in Lao PDR. Strengthening oral health education, preventive practices, early detection, and community based oral screening may help reduce the burden of oral diseases and improve oral health outcomes among the Lao population.

Authors affiliation:

Maiboun Simalavong: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Phonmany Phipukphommachan: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR. 
Phetmany Sihavong: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR. 
Phimfa Lee Sayaxang: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Anhtana Photsavang: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Vimonlak Bouphavanh: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Fongsamod Daoungnuvong: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Phetlamphay Sidanumon: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Viengkham keohavong: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Bounthon Bounmanathum: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR. 
Thongsavanh Vetsuvan: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Ampayvanh Homsavath: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.
Hue Vang: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR. 
Viengsavanh Inthakoun: Faculty of dentistry, University of Health Sciences, Lao PDR.

How To Cite: M. Simalavong, P. Phipukphommachan, P. Sihavong, P.L. Sayaxang, A. Photsavang, V. Bouphavanh, F. Daoungnuvong, P. Sidanumon, V. keohavong, B. Bounmanathum, T. Vetsuvan, A. Homsavath, H. Vang and V. Inthakoun. The prevalence of oral mucosa lesion and oral behavior in Lao PDR. Journal of Applied Health Sciences and Medicine, 6(10):16–24, 2026. https://doi.org/10.58614/jahsm6103