METHOD:: To address the concerned area, PubMed, Scopus and Google Scholar databases were explored from the year 1965 until 2017. Studies focusing on various aspects of AN only, and articles published in English were included. Anecdotal reports, case reports and unpublished data were excluded.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION:: This narrative review suggests India is the world's largest producer of AN along with the largest AN consuming population followed by other South-east Asian countries. AN chewing causes oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) and it is most commonly observed in people of India and South-east Asia. AN use is associated with various social and unsocial aspects. Dentists and dental auxiliaries can increase the knowledge and awareness of a health issue (OSF) among the target audience as well as the detrimental effects of AN chewing.

Methodology: Ethical committee of the University approved this study. A validated, pre-tested questionnaire was sent electronically to 224 OHP. Questionnaire collected information regarding demography, knowledge about HPV-OSCC link, HPV vaccine, and willingness to educate patients about HPV OSCC link among the participants of this cross-sectional study. Data collected was analysed using "Stata/IC-13" and was summarised using descriptive statistics like frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation.

Results: Out of 179 participants, around 39% of the participant's opined virus was not a causative factor for OSCC. Around, 44% replied posterior portion of the tongue/oro-pharynx was the commonest site for HPV related OSCC, whereas 29% replied that lateral border of the tongue was the common site for HPV related OSCC. Forty one percent educated patients regarding HPV infection being a causative factor for OSCC. HPV vaccine can prevent OSCC was stated by 70% OHP. Only 12% were aware of the availability of HPV vaccine in Malaysia. Majority (99%), agreed that there is a need to offer continuing education programmes to dentists highlighting advances and preventive strategies in the fight against OSCC.