Knowledge and Awareness Regarding Nicotine Replacement Therapy among Dental Students: A Questionnaire Study

Abstract

Context: Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is one of the most effective smoking cessation aids. The ability of dental students to recognize and implement NRT is important for guiding patients toward tobacco cessation. Aims: The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and awareness among interns and postgraduate students (PGS) from Dental Colleges in Dakshina Kannada toward NRT. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire-based survey was conducted, which included 249 interns and PGS from Dental Colleges in Dakshina Kannada. The survey was conducted using an online form (Google Form). A self-administered questionnaire with 19 questions was distributed regarding demographics, general information, and knowledge and awareness about NRT. Statistical Analysis Used: Inter-group comparison (two groups) was done using t-test. Comparison of the frequency of categories of variables with groups was done using Chi-square test. P <0.05 was considered to be statistically significant. Results: A total of 249 responses were received and analyzed. Most of the study population was familiar with the term NRT (89.2%). For most of the questions regarding knowledge and awareness about NRT, there was no statistically significant difference in responses between the interns and postgraduates (P > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in mean knowledge and awareness score between interns (9.15 ± 5.74) and postgraduates (9.98 ± 5.068) (P > 0.05). Conclusions: Although there is an awareness of NRT, there lacks an in-depth knowledge and awareness regarding it.