A Survey of the Kerman Adults’ Knowledge about the Signs and Risk Factor of Oral Carcinoma

Abstract

Statement of Problems: The knowledge regarding risk factors and primary signs of oral cancer in general population can help them to avoid the risk factors of cancer and their timely referral to physicians.Purpose: The aim of this study was to survey the adult knowledge about the risk factors and signs of oral cancer in Kerman city in 2007.Materials and Method: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 723 adults who referred to Kerman Dental School and clinics were enrolled. The data were collected using a questionnaire. The data were analyzed by ANOVA and t- test.Results: The results of this study showed that the mean knowledge about the risk factors and signs of oral cancer were (6.04±2.31 from 15) and (2±1.3 from 6), respectively. There was only a significant difference between knowledge about risk factory of oral cancer and the education of the participants.Conclusion: Low level of knowledge of adult people regarding both risk factors and signs of oral cancer stresses the need to more efforts made about the above-mentioned issues by media.Key words: Knowledge, Risk factors, Signs, Oral cancer