Comparative Evaluation of Knowledge and Awareness on Early Childhood Caries Among Medical and Non-Medical Personnel in Salem, India - A Cross Sectional Study

  

  J. Baby John , C. Bharath , Vinola Duraisamy

   DOI : https://doi.org/

 Abstract

Oral health is a crucial aspect of overall health. Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a widespread childhood disease worldwide. Therefore, it is vital to compare the knowledge and awareness about ECC between medical and non-medical personnel, particularly the male and female population, as they can influence others they come in contact with. The objective of this study was to assess and compare the oral health knowledge and awareness of medical professionals and non-medical personnel regarding ECC in Salem, Tamilnadu, India. A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1235 participants aged 18-35 years, including medical professionals and non-medical personnel in Salem, India. Statistical analysis techniques, such as mean percentage scores, standard deviation (±SD), frequency distribution, chi-square test, Student's t-test, and ANOVA were used to calculate knowledge scores related to oral health. The results showed that males among the non-medical personnel had a mean knowledge score of 10.34±10.22, while females had a score of 12.12±09.21 (t = -2.1774, p = 0.030**). Though a significant difference was observed among medical professionals, the overall knowledge score related to ECC was only satisfactory (F-8.897, p=0.000). Thus, the knowledge of medical professionals about ECC was not up to the mark, considering their role as healthcare providers. Therefore, ECC prevention knowledge should be included in the curriculum for all medical and non-medical personnel.

 Keywords

Early Childhood, Non-Medical Personnel, Oral health.

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