Confidence in Oral Cancer Awareness among Undergraduate Health Profession University Students at Al-Quds University

Abstract

Background: Oral cancer is the sixth most commonly diagnosed cancer in the world. Still, awareness of this disease among undergraduate health profession university students is insufficient. Many students lack an understanding of risk factors and early signs of oral cancer. Therefore rises a need to increase awareness of oral cancer among health profession graduates so that they may be trained to recognize, diagnose, and properly manage this potentially deadly disease. Method: This study aimed to assess the current awareness and knowledge in oral cancer, focusing on prevention, early detection and adequate referral amongst undergraduate students studying a healthcare profession at Al-Quds University. This was a qualitative survey conducted among 64 senior students at various health profession undergraduate programs. The survey was distributed online and included questions about prevention, early detection, adequate referral, and overall confidence. Results: The results of the survey indicate that dental students had a higher confidence level in the subject of oral cancer than non-dental students, with the highest levels of confidence in prevention and lower levels of confidence in adequate referral. Additionally, the results suggest that a larger proportion of non-dental students showed lower confidence in the survey, and a higher proportion of dental students showed higher confidence. Conclusion: In conclusion, this survey revealed that dental students had a higher level of confidence in the areas of prevention, early detection, and overall confidence than non-dental students. Additionally, more emphasis on these aspects is recommended for all health profession students in necessary.