Submission ID 118268
| Issue/Objective | Oral cancer is a major global health concern, with particularly high incidence rates in South East Asian Region. Ranging from 1.6 to 8.6/100000 annually. It is the most common cancer in men and the second most common in women, after breast cancer in Pakistan. Despite being preventable, low awareness and delayed diagnosis contribute to high morbidity and mortality. This study aims to explore health care providers, experiences, insights and perceptions regarding oral cancer awareness and early detection, thus identifying the gaps that may have social impact on patient outcomes and public health efforts. |
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| Methodology/Approach | A qualitative exploratory research was conducted in a tertiary care civil hospital in Islamabad with the purpose of elucidating insights from healthcare professionals. These health care professionals; dentists, general physicians, nurses and allied health professionals, were categorized in four focus groups which were designated as Group A, B, C & D, respectively. Population from both genders following voluntary informed consent was included and structured interviews were conducted. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis to extract key insights regarding awareness, perceived risks, and barriers to early diagnosis and healthcare-seeking behaviors. |
| Results | The study revealed that Group A, which comprised of general dentists had a better understanding of oral cancer risk factors but were not confident of screening procedures. Although tobacco and betel nut are recognized as major risk factors, surprisingly Groups B, C, & D associated it with old age and poor oral hygiene. Majority of the participants were not confident about early detection and were unaware of the disease exigency, notably observed in group B comprising of general physicians, thus indicating a knowledge gap. All participants emphasized the need for workshops & seminars to improve understanding to facilitate early detection and referral. |
| Discussion/Conclusion | Targeted educational initiatives and awareness workshops are essential for enhancing understanding among health care providers as an important step towards fight against oral cancer. Integrating oral cancer awareness into the "Oral Health Week" and "World Cancer Day'' could be a key strategy in achieving this goal. |
| Presenters and affiliations | Ayesha Maqsood Foundation University Islamabad Rabia Geelani Foundation University Islamabad Sadia Paiker Foundation University Islamabad Sanaa Masood Aslam Foundation University Islamabad |
