Knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding oral cancer among dental practitioners in Gauteng
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Date
2020
Authors
Mahlomoje, Itumeleng D.
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Abstract
This study aims to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding oral cancer among the dental practitioners in the Gauteng province. The objectives of the study are: (1) To describe the demographic characteristics of the Dental Practitioners in Gauteng, (2)To measure the level of knowledge, attitudes and practices among the different categories of dentists in Gauteng , (3) To determine factors associated with knowledge, attitudes and practice regarding oral cancer among dental practitioners in Gauteng. Methods: As part of a cross-sectional study design a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data among dental practitioners in Gauteng. Results: The total number of study participants was 102 and with the median age of 36 years (30-45.5 years). The majority of participants were females (71.8%) and median number of years worked in public service was nine years (5-14.5 years).The dental practitioners had sound knowledge about oral cancer. Approximately 95.1 % correctly answered that the most common site of oral cancer besides lips is the tongue and floor of the oral cavity and the most common form of oral cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. About 98.1 % of the participants correctly identified tobacco use and alcohol consumption as the most common risk factors of oral cancer. About 26 % felt they were not adequately trained to examine oral cancer patients. Enrolled participants (64 %) agreed that their knowledge about oral cancer was not up to date. Longer years of service was significantly associated with a decrease in attitude scores (unfavorable attitude) [ rs= 0.254 and p=0.045 value]. Time constrains were stated as a barrier from performing oral cancer examinations. Conclusion: Dental practitioners had adequate knowledge regarding oral cancer; however, they felt that they needed to be continuously capacitated in order to keep up with the latest developments regarding oral cancer. Time constraints, longer years and lack of training are barriers to dental practitioner’s attitudes and practice. There is a need for education in oral cancer examination and diagnosis such as refresher training amongst dental practitioners to build confidence in the identification of premalignant lesions and patients at risk.
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A research report submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Dentistry to the Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Oral Health Sciences, University of Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, 2020