Afsaneh Pakdaman, Parisa Mohsenzadeh, Mahdia Gholami,
Volume 36, Issue 0 (5-2023)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Considering the prevalence of periodontal disease in Iranian adults and its impact on general health and the role of medical practitioners, the purpose of the present study was to determine physician’s knowledge and attitude towards periodontal health.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Tehran in 2019 and after getting informed consent, a valid and reliable questionnaire was provided to medical practitioners in a continuing education course. Data were analyzed using the SPSS26 software.
Results: In total 170 subjects (response rate=95%) responded. The mean scores of knowledge and attitude towards periodontal health were 4.1 (maximum score of 6) and 51.9 (maximum score of 65), respectively. Work experience (P=0.022) and period of time after graduation (P=0.007) had a positive and significant relationship with participants' knowledge. Also, gender (P=0.012), work experience (P=0.002), period after graduation (P=0.005) and practitioner’s workplace (P=0.001) were significantly associated with their attitudes. The results showed that women had a better attitude towards prevention of gum disease.
Conclusion: In the present study, medical practitioners’ knowledge was good towards description of healthy periodontium and the first sign of periodontal diseas. Also, their attitudes regarding the importance of oral and dental diseases and its impact on social activities were appropriate. The results of the present study showed more emphasis is needed on delivering relevant dental education in medical curriculum.
Ali Najarchi, Maryam Mohebiniya, Mohsen Shamsi,
Volume 38, Issue 0 (4-2025)
Abstract
Background and Aims: Given the risks of repeated exposure to ionizing radiation in dentistry and its potential adverse effects on the health of patients, staff, and students, adherence to radiation protection principles is a fundamental priority in this profession. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, practice, and behavioral predictors of dental students at Arak University of Medical Sciences regarding the radiation protection principles in 2024.
Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional analytical study was conducted as a census on 120 dental students during October 2024 to March 2025. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which included sections on demographic information, knowledge assessment (maximum score: 20), attitudes (maximum score: 55), and practice (maximum score: 16). The questionnaire used was a revised version of a standard instrument, the validity (CVR=0.62, CVI=0.79) and reliability (Cronbach's alpha >0.7 for all sections) of which were measured and confirmed. Data analysis was performed using SPSS27, with analytical tests including the Mann-Whitney U test, Kruskal-Wallis test, Spearman’s correlation, and predictive practice with asses test of linear regression.
Results: The number of 120 students with mean age of participants 23.59 ± 3.13 old years and 51.7% were male. The mean scores were as follows: knowledge (9.69 ± 2.51), attitude (27.88 ± 3.05), and practice (12.60 ± 1.06). A significant difference in knowledge was observed between the male and female students (P=0.035), which the male students’ scoring was higher. No significant differences were found in the attitude or practice between genders (P>0.05). Factors such as place of residence (dormitory or non dormitory), prior radiation protection training, age, GPA, and admission year showed no significant association with the knowledge, attitude, or practice (P>0.05). Based on the regression model, the greatest predictors of student performance were age (R2=0.247, P=0.015) and grade point average (R2=0.282, P=0.003).
Conclusion: While academic training effectively imparts knowledge of radiation protection, translating this knowledge into practical performance remains moderate and thus, highlighting the need for advanced hands-on training courses.
