Survey on knowledge, attitude and practice regarding oral cancer among oral and maxillofacial surgical trainees in Thailand: a cross-sectional study
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Abstract
The objective of the study was to investigate knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the diagnosis and care of oral cancer and identify factors associated with the knowledge, attitudes,and practices among trainees pursuing a certificate in oral and maxillofacial surgery in Thailand.The study was conducted through a self-administered online questionnaire among trainees who began their training between the years 2018 and 2021. The study received responses from 73 out of 89 participants, resulting in a response rate of 82.0%. The average knowledge score of the trainees regarding oral cancer was at a moderate level. The average knowledge score of trainees in Year 3 and 4 was significantly higher than those in Year 1 and 2 (p = 0.007). Trainees in the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery program combined with an MD degree had significantly higher attitudes towards oral cancer care compared to those in the standalone program (p = 0.003). While 69.9% conducted full oral examinations, the retromolar trigone was often missed (16.4%). Trainees with experience examining more than 5 oral cancer cases annually performed neck lymph node palpation more frequently (p = 0.032). In the conclusion, training duration impacted knowledge, and different programs influenced attitudes toward oral cancer care, though overall practices were appropriate.
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