A Review on the Etiology of Oral Cancer in Saudi Arabia

Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. In recent years, there is a remarkable increase in the incidence of oral cancer in Saudi Arabia, particularly among relatively younger people. The increase in the incidence of oral cancer has been linked to several etiological factors, which greatly differs from geographical region to another. Therefore, the aim of the present review was to discuss the most important risk factors associated with oral cancer in light of the available literature from Saudi Arabia. Etiological factors discussed in this review of literature include genetic factors, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, infections, dietary factors, oral hygiene, etc. These etiological factors were discussed in view of the available literature (in the Medline and another electronic database) in general and literature pertains to Saudi Arabia in particular. This review can make important information available for health policymakers to implement better strategies for oral cancer prevention, early detection, and overall control. The review also helps in identifying the gaps between researchers to complete the whole image of oral cancer in Saudi Arabia with subsequent precise oral cancer control.