Knowledge of diagnostic and risk factors in oral cancer: Results from a large-scale survey among non-dental healthcare providers in Northern Germany

Abstract

IntroductionA survey was conducted to assess the level of knowledge on oral cancer among different medical fields, in particular about diagnostic items and risk factors. Material and methodsA self-administered questionnaire was mailed to physicians from various fields, such as otorhinolaryngology, general practice, internal medicine, and dermatology. Results388 of the 2,952 questionnaires were returned (13.1%), subdivided into otorhinolaryngology (n = 33), internal medicine (n = 135), dermatology (n = 28), and general practice (n = 192). The average knowledge of risk factors was similar in the specialisations, ranging from 68% for internal medicine to 76% for otorhinolaryngology and 77% for dermatology. The three main risk factors: tobacco (93%–100%), alcohol (79%–100%), and prior oral cancer lesions (91%–100%) were the most commonly known. Regarding the diagnostic items, the average percentage of correct answers ranged from 69% for internal and general medicine to 77% for dermatologists. Continuous courses of education and the year of graduation were the only two variables that significantly related to a better level of knowledge of risk factors and diagnostic items. ConclusionsThe average knowledge among the different medical fields was satisfying. These results demonstrated a robust base for all healthcare providers to continue working together to improve the early detection of oral cancer.