Oral cancer screening practices of oral health professionals in Australia

Abstract

BACKGROUND: To evaluate oral cancer-related screening practices of Oral Health Professionals (OHPs - dentists, dental hygienists, dental therapists, and oral health therapists) practising in Victoria, Australia. METHODS: A 36-item survey was distributed to 3343 OHPs. Items included socio-demographic and work-related characteristics; self-assessed knowledge of oral cancer; perceived level of confidence in discussing oral health behaviors with patients; oral cancer screening practices; and self-evaluated need for additional training on screening procedures for oral cancer. RESULTS: A total of 380 OHPs responded this survey, achieving an overall response rate of 9.4%. Forty-five were excluded f..