Oral cancer knowledge and awareness among dental students at Sirte University

Abstract

Oral cancer is a multifactorial disease that belongs to a larger group of cancers commonly referred to as head and neck cancers. The alarming increase in incidence rate of oral cancer globally has made it a major public health issue, in which prevention and early diagnosis are the best ways to reverse this situation. A dental practitioner’s ability to recognize signs and symptoms of the malignancy in its early stage is crucial. Aim: To assess the knowledge and attitude of undergraduate dental students about oral cancer. Material and Methods: A cross‐ sectional study was conducted on third‐ and fourth‐year students of the Faculty of Dentistry‐Sirte University in Libya. A total 64 of students participated in the survey. This study is based on a questionnaire contains 40 questions about risk factors, clinical aspects, prevention and attitudes towards oral cancer. Data were collected and analyzed with SPSS18 using independent t‐test. Significance level was considered as p<0.05. Results: The vast majority of students identified smoking tobacco use and alcohol as the major risk factors for oral cancer. Squamous cell carcinoma was listed as the most common cancer by 91.8% of students, and the tongue and floor of the mouth are the most likely sites. Non‐healing ulcer was recognized as the common clinical change pertaining to oral cancer. While the majority showed willingness to advise their patients on risk factors. More than 92.2% of students admitted that they need further information regarding oral cancer. Conclusions: The findings of the present study suggest that here is a need to reinforce the undergraduate dental curriculum with regards to oral cancer education, particularly in its prevention and early detection.