Association of Oral Health Determinants With Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Never‐Smoking Adults

ABSTRACT Background The incidence of oral cavity squamous cell carcinoma (OCSCC) is increasing among non‐smokers. This study investigates the association between local and systemic oral health determinants and OCSCC in never‐smoking adults. Methods A case–control study using the National Institutes of Health All of Us database was conducted. Lifetime exposures to periodontal disease, acquired absence of teeth, hyperlipidemia, hyperglycemia, HIV, oral‐related autoimmune diseases, depression, and eating disorders were analyzed. Multivariate logistic regression estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals to identify independent OCSCC risk factors. Results Several risk factors were independently associated with OCSCC: periodontal disease (OR 4.99), hyperlipidemia (OR 1.53), HIV infection (OR 2.96), oral‐related autoimmune diseases (OR 2.40), depression (OR 1.51), and eating disorders (OR 8.46). Acquired absence of teeth and hyperglycemia did not show statistical significance. Conclusions This study highlights the complex pathophysiology of OCSCC in never‐smoking adults and underscores the need for comprehensive risk assessment and prevention strategies.