Abstract

Background: The glue is a complex mixture of chemicals that may lead to cellular proliferation. Detecting signs of cellular proliferation among glue abusers can serve as a warning to caregivers and concerned individuals. This study aimed to identify cytological changes in the buccal mucosa of glue abusers. Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study included buccal smears collected from 150 glue abusers in Shendi City, Sudan. A buccal smear was taken from each participant, and the AgNOR mean was calculated for each smear. Results: Cytological screening revealed that all glue abusers showed an elevated average mean of AgNOR numbers. There was a strong statistical correlation between the AgNOR number and both the dose of glue and the frequency of glue intake per day. Conclusions: Cellular proliferation in the buccal mucosa of glue abusers was significantly higher than in non-glue abusers.