Oral and General Health Profile of the Soliga Tribal Population in MM Hills, Karnataka, and Factors Associated with Oral Mucosal Lesions: A Cross-Sectional Study

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Background: Indigenous tribal populations experience substantial oral health disparities due to limited access to healthcare and behavioural and social determinants. However, evidence regarding the oral and general health status of the Soliga tribal population and factors associated with oral mucosal lesions remains limited. The present study assessed the oral and general health profile of the Soliga tribal population residing in the Male Mahadeshwara Hills of Karnataka and identified factors associated with oral mucosal lesions. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 313 Soliga adults aged 18 years and above who attended a community outreach programme in October 2024. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, tobacco use, anthropometric measurements, systemic health parameters and oral health were collected using a predesigned proforma. Oral examinations were conducted using standardized World Health Organization criteria. Dental caries, periodontal status and oral mucosal lesions were assessed. Body weight, blood pressure and random blood glucose were also recorded. Associations were assessed using appropriate statistical tests, and binary logistic regression was performed to identify factors independently associated with oral mucosal lesions. Results: The prevalence of dental caries, periodontal disease and oral mucosal lesions was 18.9%, 5.4% and 25.0%, respectively. Tobacco use was reported by 29.8% of participants and was significantly associated with oral mucosal lesions. Oral mucosal lesions were present in 77.7% of tobacco users compared with 2.3% of non-users. In multivariable analysis, tobacco use remained significantly associated with oral mucosal lesions after adjustment for age, gender, body weight, blood pressure and random blood glucose. Conclusion: Oral mucosal lesions represent a substantial oral health concern among the Soliga tribal population. The strong association with tobacco use highlights the need for culturally appropriate tobacco cessation interventions, regular oral screening and improved access to preventive oral healthcare services within tribal communities.

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