A cross-sectional study on knowledge, attitude, and perception toward COVID-19 pandemic among dental students of India

Abstract

Context: The rapid spread of COVID-19 globally continues to be a threat for healthcare professionals. Dental students and practitioners remain at the risk of having this disease. Aim: The aim of this survey was to assess the knowledge, attitude, and perception of dental students across India toward COVID-19. Settings and Design: A survey with 51 questions to obtain knowledge, attitude, and perception of dental students toward COVID-19 was formulated, pretested via a pilot study and then validated. Subjects and Methods: The final questionnaire was circulated through a link to Google forms, making participation voluntary. Statistical Analysis Used: Statistical analysis was carried out using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) test and independent t-test. Results: A total of 610 undergraduate dental students (3rd year, 4th year and students undergoing internship) from various dental colleges across the country responded. On intergroup comparison using One-way ANOVA test, between knowledge, attitude, and perception of dental undergraduate students, attitude toward COVID-19 was found be of statistical significance with P = 0.008. Conclusion: Knowledge, awareness, and perception toward COVID-19 will help contain the spread of this infectious disease that can be caused during dental procedures. There lies a strong call to conduct educational programs on COVID-19 regarding the infection control practices for all healthcare professions, especially dental school students.