Rethinking Dental Education; Gaps in Oral Cancer Awareness Among General Dentists: A Cross-sectional Study in Shahr-e-Babak, Iran

Abstract

Background: Early detection of oral cancer is crucial, as it can significantly impact survival rates. Objectives: This study focused on evaluating the awareness of general dentists in South-Eastern Iran regarding oral cancer and its risk factors. Dentists play a key role in the early detection of this serious public health issue. Methods: This cross-sectional study surveyed 45 general dentists selected through census sampling. Their knowledge of oral cancer, risk factors, and demographic information was collected through a questionnaire. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software with t-test, ANOVA, and chi-square tests (P < 0.05). Results: Nearly half of the study participants were men, and the mean age was 37.21 ± 6.1. Around 60% correctly identified the age group most susceptible to cancer, while 84.4% recognized smoking as a major oral cancer risk factor. Only 15.6% knew that HPV infection also posed a risk. There were significant differences between participation in an oral cancer seminar and willingness to participate in an oral cancer training course with awareness about oral cancer. Conclusions: According to this study, dentists in Shahr-e-Babak showed low awareness of oral cancer and moderate awareness of its risk factors. Therefore, strategies must be implemented to enhance dentists' knowledge on this important issue.