North Carolina dental hygienists' oral cancer knowledge and opinions: implications for education.

Background: Appropriately trained dental hygienists can participate in oral cancer (OC) control.

Method: We assessed knowledge of risk factors, diagnostic procedures, and opinions regarding OC education among 651 dental hygienists practicing in North Carolina using a mail survey. We constructed regression models of factors influencing high knowledge levels.

Adequacy of training in oral cancer prevention and screening as self-assessed by physicians, nurse practitioners, and dental health professionals.

Objective: To assess the educational preparedness of medical and dental professionals to reduce the burden of OPC through planning effective cancer control strategies such as reducing tobacco consumption, suggesting healthy lifestyle and diet, and performing early detection through screening examinations and appropriate follow-up.

Methods: Self-reported adequacy of training in oral and pharyngeal cancer (OPC) early intervention activities was compared among 4 health care provider groups in North Carolina. Pretested surveys were mailed to random samples of licensed professionals.

North Carolina dental hygienists' assessment of patients' tobacco and alcohol use.

Purpose: North Carolina is the 11th most populous state and ranks 14th among all states in the age-adjusted mortality rate for oral and pharyngeal cancer (OPC). This study assessed North Carolina dental Hygienists' knowledge of tobacco and alcohol use as OPC risk factors, assessment practices of tobacco and alcohol use in patient medical histories, and opinions regarding tobacco and alcohol cessation education. Characteristics of dental hygienists who screen for tobacco and alcohol use in medical histories were also analyzed.