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.
Comments