Awareness and knowledge of oral cancer amongst adult dental patients attending regional university clinics in New South Wales, Australia: a questionnaire-based study

Background Greater awareness and knowledge of oral cancer has been shown to increase patient presentation for opportunistic screening. This study aimed to identify the level of awareness and knowledge of oral cancer amongst adult patients in regional New South Wales. Methods A total of 444 adult dental patients participated in a self-administered questionnaire at one of five regional university dental clinics between 23(rd) May and 25(th) July. Data analyses were performed using the chi-square test and binary logistic regression to compare sociodemographic characteristics and the self-declared awareness and knowledge of oral cancer. Results The study revealed that 73.8% of patients were aware of oral cancer; however, only 28.8% knew that they had been previously screened for oral cancer. Being female (P < 0.001, OR = 2.57), having an excellent level of oral health (P = 0.042, OR = 3.34) and previous attendance at a dental clinic of the regional university (P = 0.014, OR = 2.89) significantly enhanced awareness of oral cancer. Conclusion The findings of this study have broad implications for both clinicians and public health professionals, providing a platform for discussion regarding the sociodemographic factors contributing to reduced knowledge and awareness of oral cancer amongst patients. This study also identified an essential avenue to allow a more targeted approach in future campaigns to increase education.