Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices Regarding Oral Cancer amongMedical Students in Nepal: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Abstract

Introduction: Medical students, in the formative stage of their training, are integral to early oral cancer detection and prevention. However, gaps in their knowledge, attitudes, and practices can hinder effective screening and education. This study evaluated these domains among medical students at a medical school in Nepal to identify specific curricular gaps and guide educational reforms.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted from September 2024 to October 2024 among 252 third-year medical students aged 20–26 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire from google web form assessing demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitudes and practices regrading oral cancers. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data using Microsoft Excel 2016 and SPSS version 31 (Trial Pack).

Results: The majority of students (97.6%) correctly identified tobacco as a primary risk factor for oral cancer; high awareness was also observed for poor oral hygiene, alcohol, and HPV infection. However, only 14.7% recognized sun exposure as a risk factor, and 20.4% were unsure about recommended screening frequencies. A misconception that oral cancer affects only those over 50 years was held by 13.5% of respondents, while 38.9% were unaware of the survival benefits of early detection. Regarding the Attitude of students, 82.5% agreed that early detection improves outcomes, and 79.4% supported the inclusion of routine screening in medical examinations. Nevertheless, only 44.2% felt confident educating patients, and 71.4% were neutral or dissatisfied with their training adequacy, highlighting insufficient preparedness for clinical practice.

Conclusion: Although medical students demonstrate sound baseline knowledge and positive attitudes toward oral cancer, substantial knowledge gaps and limited self-confidence in practical application persist.