Pan [Betel Quid] and oral carcinogenesis

Pan [betel quid] chewing is a prevalent habit of Asiatic people. It is important for general dental practitioners to know about the role of this habit in oral health and disease. In this article an attempt has been made to highlight the effects of this habit on oral tissues and their relation to oral cancer. Prevalence of oral cancer composition of pan and its side effects, its ingredients, as well as recommendations for the dental profession and general public, and the need of health promotion activities is presented