Knowledge, Awareness, and Attitude Among Dental Students Regarding Oral Cancer in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Oral cancer awareness among junior and seniors' dental undergraduate students may have an impact on the early detection and prevention of oral cancer. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To assess oral cancer awareness, knowledge and attitude among undergraduate dental students in government and private colleges in Saudi Arabia. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was undertaken to assess oral cancer knowledge, awareness and attitude among undergraduate dental students in government and private colleges in Saudi Arabia. All junior and senior students enrolled during the 2020– 2021 academic year, were eligible to participate (n=189). RESULTS: The study shows that dental Students at private and government colleges in Saudi Arabia are generally knowledgeable regarding Knowledge, awareness, attitude and management of oral cancer. There was no significant difference between knowledge, awareness, attitude, and management of oral cancer between students in either private and government colleges. Results shows that 99 (88.9%) of dental students in government colleges considered human papilloma virus as a risk factor, higher than dental students in private colleges 48 (73.3%). My results indicated that dental students considered (87%) tobacco, and alcohol (83.6%) as main risk to oral cancer, whereas, 100 (53%) identified limited consumption of fruit and vegetables and 124 (65.6%) considered old age as risk factor for oral cancer. CONCLUSION: The variation in correct answers indicate to need to reinforce the undergraduate dental curriculum with regards to oral cancer education; particularly in its prevention and early detection. Revision of knowledge senior students in oral cancer is highly recommended.