Knowledge Assessment of Undergraduate Dental Students about Oral Cancer -An Institutional Study.

ABSTRACT

Background: Oral cancer is one of the leading cause of death in Indian subcontinent. Early detection will definitely reduce its mortality rate. Aims and Objectives: To assess knowledge of undergraduate dental students about oral cancer. Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire with 10 questions related to basic aspects of oral cancer was designed and distributed to 100 undergraduate students from January 2015 to June 2015. The data was collected, tabulated and analyzed statistically for number and percentage using EPI-Info statistical software version 6. Results: Most of the students assessed were females making to 60% (60), while males were only 40% (40). 49 females and 32 males routinely check the oral mucosa completely. 56 females and 34 males ask the patients about their personal history like habits of tobacco and alcohol. Conclusion: Even though most of the students had adequate knowledge regarding basics of oral cancer, curriculum should be revised in such a way to enhance the knowledge of students about oral cancer.