Knowledge, attitude and practice of dental patients towards oral cancer and tobacco cessation in India

Abstract

Background: One of the main causes of delay in diagnosis of oral cancer is lack of awareness about aetiology and symptoms among the general population. The aim of this study was to assess the knowledge and practice of patients regarding oral cancer and their attitude towards tobacco cessation. Materials and Methods: A 29-item self-administrated questionnaire was designed and piloted and distributed to patients attending dental clinics. Questions were focused on awareness about oral cancer risk factors, signs and symptoms, places in the mouth which are more susceptible and attitude toward tobacco cessation. Chi-square, T-test, ANOVA and logistic regression tests were used for statistical analysis. Results: A total of 100 valid completed questionnaires were obtained. The mean knowledge score of patients was 5.1(±1.3) out of score of 13. Some 80% of patients did not know about early manifestations of oral cancer. Only 11% knew the most likely sites of oral cancer. Only 39 % and 52 % of patients reported alcohol and tobacco consumption as the main risk factors but they had a fair knowledge about other risk factors. There was no significant difference in Knowledge level between patients regarding their sex, educational levels and age.