Knowledge Assessment of Undergraduate Dental Students about Oral Cancer -An Institutional Study

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer is one of the leading cause of death in Indian subcontinent. Early detection will definitely reduce its mortality rate. Aims and Objectives: To assess knowledge of undergraduate dental students about oral cancer. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire with 10 questions related to basic aspects of oral cancer was designed and distributed to 100 undergraduate students from January 2015 to June 2015. The data was collected, tabulated and analyzed statistically for number and percentage using EPI-Info statistical software version 6. Results: Most of the students assessed were females making to 60% (60), while males were only 40% (40). 49 females and 32 males routinely check the oral mucosa completely. 56 females and 34 males ask the patients about their personal history like habits of tobacco and alcohol. Conclusion: Even though most of the students had adequate knowledge regarding basics of oral cancer, curriculum should be revised in such a way to enhance the knowledge of students about oral cancer.

Perception and outcome of oral cancer awareness among clinical undergraduate dental students of Tertiary health care centre at Kanpur city: A cross-sectional study

“…These results were in accordance with the studies conducted by Rehman and Khan, Gaddikeri et al ., and Hamdy et al ., who reported that students did not have sufficient knowledge regarding the prevention and early detection of oral cancer (63.4%, 81%, and 80%, respectively). [ 11 15 16 ] In addition, most of the undergraduates requested further information on the prevention and early detection of oral cancer with lectures along with seminars (57.7%) and an information pack (69.2%). Statistically significant differences were observed ( P < 0.001).…”