Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practices of risk factors of oral cancer among the adult population of Jammu and Kashmir- A cross sectional study

Background: Oral cancer refers to cancers affecting the mouth, lip and oral cavity. The two major known risk factors for oral cancer are alcohol and tobacco. These factors have a synergistic effect so people who both drink and use tobacco have a much higher risk of oral cancer than those using only al- cohol or tobacco. Other factors that have been impli- cated in the development of oral cancer include poor diet and nutrition, sun exposure and the human papil loma virus. In India, oral cavity cancer is among the top five most common cancers in both sexes. This study intends to find out the knowledge, awareness and practice of risk factors of oral cancer among population of Jammu & Kashmir and to provide them health education about the prevention and early diagnosis. Methods: The cross sectional descriptive study was conducted in the Government Dental College & Hospital, Jammu, among 400 adults. Results: Majority, 265 (66.2%) of the population did not know the site of oral cancer, 325 (81.2%) did not know any clinical features of the oral cancer and 180 (45.0%) did not know about any risk factors of oral cancer. About 199 (49.75%) people agreed that there is a need for screening and regular oral examination to detect the lesions early. Conclusion: There is a need to generate awareness regarding the risk factors and about the good and harmful practices in the community.