Journal of Dr. NTR University of Health Sciences (Jan 2017)
A study on awareness of early detection and screening of potentially malignant oral disorders and oral cancer
Abstract
Background: Squamous cell carcinoma accounts for more than 90% of oral malignancies. The incidence of squamous cell carcinoma of oral cavity differs widely in various parts of the world. It is well within the scope of General Dental Practitioners (GDPs) to carry out certain diagnostic investigations such as exfoliative cytology and oral tissue biopsy to determine the nature of the lesion. Aim: The aim of this study was to assess the awareness concerning the early detection and screening of potentially malignant oral disorders and oral cancer among general dental practitioners of Tamil Nadu. Materials and Methods: Questionnaires were sent to 194 general dental practitioners. The completed questionnaire was collected immediately. Confidentiality of the participants was guaranteed. Statistical Analysis: The statistical analysis included the use of descriptive statistics. Results: Approximately 97% of the participants conducted intraoral soft tissue examination; 86.5% recorded the tobacco habits of the patients and approximately 97% said that they counsel the patient to stop tobacco habits. A total of 23% said potentially malignant oral disorders (PMOD) was scrapable in nature and 77% said it was nonscrapable. A total of 69% of the dentists answered that white lesions had more probability to change into oral cancer. In this study, 92% mentioned that if they suspect oral cancer in their patients then they would examine the regional lymph nodes. When questioned about the best technique for early diagnosis of oral cancer, 24% assumed exfoliative cytology, 73% accepted biopsy. A total of 43% revealed that they had performed these diagnostic procedures in their clinics. A total of 75% dentists suggested that they needed a consultant oral pathologist. A total of 78% participants had attended continuing dental education programs related to oral cancer. On confirming the diagnosis of cancer, 75% referred their patients to regional cancer centres. Conclusion: The findings on the awareness concerning the early detection and screening of PMOD and oral cancer among GDPs show the need for clinicopathologic correlation.
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