Knowledge about oral cancer among dental interns at a Peruvian university

Abstract

Objective: To determine the level of knowledge about oral cancer among stomatology interns at a Peruvian university.

Materials and Methods: A descriptive study with a cross-sectional design was developed in 151 inmates who completed their hospital internship between 2020 and 2022. A previously validated instrument of 24 items was used, organized into four thematic areas: epidemiological aspects, diagnostic criteria, therapeutic alternatives and preventive measures. Each correct answer received one point, while incorrect answers received zero points. The total score allowed the knowledge to be classified as low, intermediate and high. The data were processed using descriptive statistics (absolute frequencies and percentages). To analyze the association between the period of hospital stay and the level of knowledge about oral cancer, Pearson's Chi-square test was used.

Results: 81.5% of the inmates had an intermediate level of knowledge about oral cancer, while 13.9% showed a low level and only 4.6% reached a high level. The greatest weaknesses were identified in the treatment dimension and in certain aspects of epidemiology and diagnosis. Pearson's Chi-square test did not show a statistically significant association between the period of hospitalization and the level of knowledge about oral cancer (χ² = 5.84; df = 4; p = 0.212).

Conclusion: The results suggest the need to strengthen clinical training during the internship period, particularly in the early identification of suspicious lesions, the recognition of associated factors, and the initial clinical approach to oral cancer.

Keywords: Oral cancer; Knowledge; Stomatology.