Level of oral cancer awareness among Indian rural population: A possible research model using knowledge, attitude and practice (KAP) intervention and its utilisation in low resource settings of LMICs.

UNLABELLED

A study was conducted to establish levels of awareness of oral cancer and its causes among an Indian population.A pre-tested structured questionnaire on Knowledge, Attitude and Practice [KAP] (open and closed ended questionnaire) was used to estimate the KAP score, followed by clinical examination of the oral mucosal lesions. The subjects were counselled immediately after completion of KAP scoring using a structured protocol of regarding tobacco cession, and given advice about intake of natural sources of anti-oxidants in the diet, of tomato, carrot and green leafy vegetables (GLV).Subjects who had a KAP score 50% or less were counselled using a structured protocol. Subjects who had a KAP score greater than 50% were also counselled and given the correct information to their incorrect answers.In the group of people with a KAP score 50% or less, continual behavioural therapy was given to remain tobacco free for life. The subjects were monitored weekly for between 30 and 40 days. Clinically suspect lesions of hyperplasic candidiasis, lichen planus, and all varieties of Leucoplakia were confirmed histopathologically and routine treatment (conservative or surgical) was started without delay for the group. Those cases with dysplastic changes (of all different grades) were also counselled. Regular follow-up was maintained over several months and re-assessment carried out at intervals and any improvement noted.

CONCLUSION

This is a cost-effective and simple method for estimation of the score on knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP), and determinants of the ill-effect of tobacco habit(s) and engaging the popolation-in-need for their appropriate understanding about oral cancer screening and education for prevention and control.