14.4.17Early Diagnosis of Oral Cancer: Knowledge and Perception of Oral Health Care Providers in Qassim, Saudi Arabia

More than 570,000 new oral cancer cases are diagnosed, and around 300,000 deaths of this dreadful disease take place annually. The most widely recognized reason for morbidity and mortality globally is cancer. Early detection and regular follow up of high-risk patients can curb the mortality and morbidity rate. Dentists play a vital role in the early detection of oral cancer; therefore, assessing their knowledge and practice for early detection of oral cancer is crucial. A cross-sectional study was designed to assess the dentists’ knowledge and practice for the early detection of oral cancer. The study was conducted in the Qassim region among dental interns, general dental practitioners (GPs), specialists, and consultants. The questionnaire consisted of 14 closed-ended questions that contain socio-demographic characters of participants, information regarding the participants’ knowledge, and practice related questions. Data collected and analysed in SPSS software v. 21 and descriptive analysis was done. A total of 159 participants in the study. Regarding the potential risks for oral cancer, 48.4% and 34.6% believed viruses and hereditary. Regarding the high-risk sites for oral cancer, 38.4% of the participants choose soft palate complex, lateral border of the tongue, and floor of the mouth as high-risk sites. The majority of the participants, i.e., 70.4% did not use any adjunctive screening tools. 57.2% feel they do not have sufficient knowledge concerning the early detection of oral cancer. The vast majority, i.e., 87.4% agreed that they need more information and continuing education for the same. Dentists’ comprehension must be reinforced and constantly updated by continuing education programs.