Abstract
BackgroundThe incidence of oral cancer is increasing in the United Kingdom. Early detection of oral cancers makes them more amenable to treatment and allows the greatest chance of cure. Delay in presentation and/or referral has a significant effect on the associated morbidity and mortality. Lack of general medical practitioner and general dental practitioner oral cancer knowledge has been shown to contribute to delays in referral and treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the oral cancer awareness of future general medical and general dental practitioners by assessing undergraduate medical and dental students' knowledge of prevention and early detection of oral cancer.MethodQuestionnaires were delivered to undergraduate medical and dental students at the University of Dundee, assessing oral examination habits, delivery of advice on oral cancer risk factors, knowledge of oral cancer risk factors and clinical appearance, preferred point of referral and requests for further information.ResultsUndergraduate medical students were less likely to examine patients' oral mucosa routinely and less likely to advise patients about risk factors for oral cancer. Medical students identified fewer oral cancer risk factors. In particular alcohol use was identified poorly. Medical students also identified fewer oral changes associated with oral cancer. Erythroplakia and erythroleukoplakia were identified poorly. Medical students felt less well informed regarding oral cancer. 86% and 92% of undergraduate medical and dental students respectively requested further information about oral cancer.ConclusionThis study highlights the need for improved education of undergraduate medical and dental students regarding oral cancer.
Highlights
The incidence of oral cancer is increasing in the United Kingdom
This study highlights the need for improved education of undergraduate medical and dental students regarding oral cancer
As the incidence of oral cancer continues to rise in the United Kingdom, the role that general medical practitioners may play in prevention and detection of oral cancer assumes ever more importance
Summary
Detection of oral cancers makes them more amenable to treatment and allows the greatest chance of cure. The incidence of oral cancer is increasing in the United Kingdom [1,2,3]. Smoking tobacco and alcohol use are the main risk factors in the United Kingdom and are associated with approximately 75% of oral cancers. Detection of oral cancers makes them more amenable to treatment, reducing morbidity and allowing the greatest chance of cure [5,6]. Delay in presentation and/or referral can have a significant effect on the morbidity and mortality associated with oral cancer
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