Prevalence of Oral Mucositis Among Cancer Patients at a Private Dental Institution: A Retrospective Observational Study: Oral Mucositis and Cancer

Ruhjaan Bhagat; T.N. Uma Maheswari; Ankita Bohra

doi:10.31557/RRO.2026.12.1.63

Authors

Ruhjaan Bhagat Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
T.N. Uma Maheswari Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India.
Ankita Bohra Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Saveetha University, Chennai, India.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.31557/RRO.2026.12.1.63

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of oral mucositis among cancer patients treated at a private dental institution over a five-year period and to identify patient groups at higher risk.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted between January 1, 2019, and June 30, 2024, at a private dental institution specializing in the oral care of cancer patients. Data were extracted from the DIAS database and included patient demographics, cancer type, treatment modality, and the presence of oral mucositis. Oral mucositis was diagnosed and graded according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Oral Toxicity Scale. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS version 26.0.

Results: A total of 122 patient records met the inclusion criteria. The overall prevalence of oral mucositis was 23.8%, with the highest prevalence observed among patients with head and neck cancers (42.9%) and those receiving concurrent chemoradiotherapy (47.6%). Severe oral mucositis (WHO Grades 3–4) accounted for 31% of all cases.

Conclusion: Oral mucositis was common among patients receiving cancer therapy, particularly those with head and neck malignancies and those undergoing combined chemoradiotherapy. These findings emphasize the importance of early identification, preventive strategies, and multidisciplinary management to reduce treatment-related complications and improve patient outcomes.