Awareness and Knowledge of Oral Cancer among Dental Patients in Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia: A Questionnaire-Based Survey

Introduction: Despite advances in the diagnosis and treatment of oral cancer, cases diagnosed at an early stage is less than 50%, reasons being lack of information about etiology, signs and symptoms of oral cancer among the population. Objective: The objective was to assess the level of awareness and knowledge about oral cancer among dental patients, to correlate the knowledge levels with demographic factors, and to know the habit history of the population in Aseer region of Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey was conducted on 775 patients visiting King Khalid University-College of Dentistry in Saudi Arabia. Questionnaire probed demographic details, general information, awareness and knowledge on oral cancer. Results: 50.3% were males and 49.7% females.18.1% were smokers. Participants agreed that tobacco-67.5%, alcohol 36.5%, infection - 23.6%, 48.3%- poor oral hygiene, old age- 7.7% and close contact- 9.3% to be the main cause of oral cancer. Among the patients with improved oral hygiene frequency, only 24.3% were aware of oral cancer Conclusion: General lack of awareness and knowledge on oral cancer was reflected among patients visiting King Khalid University-College of Dentistry in Saudi Arabia. It substantiates the need for robust oral health planning for patients visiting the hospital.