Tooth loss and risk of head and neck cancer: a meta-analysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Observational studies suggest an association between tooth loss and risk of head and neck cancer. However, whether tooth loss is an independent risk factor for head and neck cancer still remains controversial. The aim of this study is to assess the association between tooth loss and head and neck cancer risk.

Methods

Eligible studies were searched in PubMed and Embase databases from their inception to March 2013. A random-effects model or fixed-effects model was used to calculate the overall combined risk estimates.

Results

Eight case-control studies and one cross-sectional study involving 5,204 patients and 5,518 controls were included in the meta-analysis. The overall combined odds ratio for tooth loss and head and neck cancer was 2.00 (95% confidence int

SUBMITTER: Wang RS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3747175 | biostudies-literature | 2013

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature