Abstract
To explore the status of awareness and knowledge of oral cancer risk factor education among dental hygienists, with the aim to help develop oral cancer curricula. A survey was conducted on 195 clinical dental hygienists, and 180 questionnaires were finally analyzed, excluding 15 copies with poor responses. The questionnaire consisted of a risk factor assessment on awareness of oral cancer, the need for oral cancer education, and knowledge about oral cancer risk factors and characteristics. Chi-square test and independent t-test were performed to analyze differences in awareness and knowledge of oral cancer education. The experience of oral cancer education was significantly higher in the younger group and the group with less work experience (P < 0.05). Most participants recognized that oral cancer education was necessary, and the group who experienced oral cancer education responded that oral cancer education was insufficient. Knowledge of oral cancer risk factors allowed the major risk factors for oral cancer to be recognized, but not non-risk factors. Regular oral cancer-related refresh courses are necessary for dental hygienists to receive accurate information about oral cancer and acquire updated knowledge.
Figures & Tables
Fig. 1. Awareness of oral cancer risk factor assessment and need for oral cancer education