Perceptions and Challenges of Primary Health Care Dental-Surgeons in the Early Diagnosis of Oral Cancer
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.32635/2176-9745.RBC.2026v72n4.5860Keywords:
Mouth Neoplasms, Early Diagnosis, Primary Health Care, Dentists, BiopsyAbstract
Introduction: Oral cancer is the main burden in oral health, and its early detection is directly associated with better clinical outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to identify factors related to primary health care dental-surgeons that contribute to the low resoluteness in the early diagnosis of the disease. Method: Cross-sectional observational study conducted with dental-surgeons working in municipalities of a state in southeastern Brazil. Data were collected through an online questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and the chi-square test. Results: A total of 248 responses were obtained. Most professionals reported insecurity in diagnosing disorders with malignant potential (64.52%), low self-perception of skills to perform biopsies, and lack of knowledge about referral and diagnostic pathways. Only 16.13% reported they performed biopsies, while 62.90% had never carried out the procedure. No significant association was observed between performing biopsies and years of clinical practice (p=0.659). However, limited knowledge about oral cancer precursor lesions was directly associated with years of professional practice (p=0.002), impacting the ability for screening/diagnosis (p<0.001) and biopsy practice (p<0.001). Additionally, structural deficiencies and the absence of continuous educational actions were identified. Conclusion: This study demonstrates that the low resoluteness of primary health care in the early diagnosis of oral cancer can be associated with lack of practical training and insufficient institutional support.
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