# Salivary Profile Analysis Based on Oral Cancer Risk Habits: An Observational Cross-Sectional Study

## TL;DR

This study compares saliva profiles of people with and without oral cancer risk habits in Indonesia, finding higher levels of a specific protein in those with risk factors.

## Contribution

The study identifies elevated salivary IL-1β levels in individuals with oral cancer risk habits, particularly alcohol drinkers.

## Key findings

- Salivary IL-1β levels were significantly higher in individuals with oral cancer risk factors.
- Alcohol drinkers showed notably higher IL-1β concentrations compared to controls.
- No significant differences were found in other salivary parameters like flow rate or IL-8 levels.

## Abstract

Background: In Indonesia, cultural practices such as betel quid chewing, smoking, and alcohol consumption are prevalent. These practices are known risk factors for oral cancer and may influence the salivary profile, which is essential for maintaining oral health. Purpose: To compare the salivary profiles of individuals with and without risk factors for oral cancer. Methods: The study included 49 individuals identified as having risk factors for oral cancer. Unstimulated saliva samples were collected. Various parameters were measured, including salivary pH, flow rate (FR), thickness, color, turbidity, and the levels of IL-1β and IL-8. Data were analyzed using Chi-square and t-tests. Results: A significant difference was found in salivary IL-1β levels between the two groups (p = 0.009), with higher levels observed in individuals with oral cancer risk factors. Notably, the salivary IL-1β concentrations showed significant differences between the smoking group (p = 0.021; OR = 2.94) and the alcohol-drinking group (p = 0.007; OR = 4.96) compared to the control group. However, no significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of salivary viscosity, color, turbidity, flow rate, acidity, or IL-8 levels (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Individuals with risk factors for oral cancer exhibit distinct salivary IL-1β profiles compared to those without such risk factors, particularly those who practice alcohol drinking.