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Abstract
Background: Ameloblastoma is a benign locally aggressive odontogenic tumor with recurrence potential. Its frequency varies geographically, and limited regional data are available from northern Pakistan. This study aimed to determine the frequency of ameloblastoma among patients presenting with odontogenic tumors at Ayub Teaching Hospital, Abbottabad, and the associated demographic and behavioral factors.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery Department over six months. A total of 100 histologically confirmed odontogenic tumor cases were included using non-probability consecutive sampling. Demographic variables, smoking status, and chewable tobacco use were recorded. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of ameloblastoma. Data analyzed using SPSS version 20. Frequencies, percentages, and correlation analysis were performed, with a p-value ≤0.05 considered statistically significant.
Results: Among the study participants, 79% were male and 21% were female, with the majority (70%) aged between 40 and 60 years. Ameloblastoma was diagnosed in 20% of patients. Although males accounted for most cases (18 out of 20), gender did not show a statistically significant association with ameloblastoma (p>0.05). A significant positive correlation was observed between ameloblastoma and smoking (r=0.565, p<0.01) as well as chewable tobacco use (r=0.212, p<0.05). Age demonstrated a weak but significant negative correlation with ameloblastoma (r=−0.199, p<0.05). No significant association was found with occupation.
Conclusion: A substantial proportion of odontogenic tumors in this population was ameloblastoma, with predominantly middle-aged males. Tobacco use showed significant associations with ameloblastoma. These findings highlight the importance of early screening, public awareness, and targeted tobacco cessation strategies to reduce disease burden.