Oral lesions and associated factors in breast cancer survivors

Abstract

Aim: To evaluate the prevalence of oral lesions (OL) and associated factors among survivors of breast cancer (BC).

Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 150 BC survivors was conducted at a public hospital in southern Brazil. Data were collected on socioeconomic aspects, treatment characteristics and oral problems. The decayed, missing and filled teeth index and the occurrence of OL were evaluated. Logistic regression was performed to determine independent variables associated with the outcome.

Results: 24% of the women had at least 1 OL and 33.3% of these had more than one lesion. Melanotic macule was the most prevalent lesion. Duration of tamoxifen use, radiotherapy, missing teeth and xerostomia were associated with the occurrence of OL (P < .05). In the adjusted analysis, women with more than 13 missing teeth and xerostomia had 2.39-fold (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.06-5.40) and 2.71-fold (95% CI, 1.14-6.42), respectively, greater odds of exhibiting OL.

Conclusion: Approximately 1/4 of the BC survivors exhibited OL, which were associated with tooth loss and xerostomia. These findings could assist in the establishment of oral health strategies for women with BC.

Keywords: breast cancer; oral health; oral lesion.