Analysis Of Mouth Self Examination Awareness Among Medical Students

• Author(s):

  Dr.Malai Ammal M | Dr.Arun Murugan | Aadarsh A | Aarav M Shah | Abarna M | Akshaya P | Akshitha Sri R V

• Keywords:

  Mouth Self-examination, Oral Cancer, Medical Students, Early Detection

• Abstract:

  Introduction: Oral Cancer Remains A Major Public Health Concern In India, With High Morbidity And Mortality Largely Due To Late Diagnosis. Mouth Self-examination (MSE) Is A Simple, Cost-effective Method For Early Detection Of Potentially Malignant Disorders. However, Its Awareness And Practice Among Future Healthcare Providers Remain Uncertain. Objectives:To Assess The Knowledge, Awareness, And Practice Of Mouth Self-examination Among Undergraduate MBBS Students. Methods:A Cross-sectional Study Was Conducted Among 150 Undergraduate MBBS Students (first To Third Year) At Government Medical College, Omandurar Government Estate, Chennai, Over Two Months (May–June 2026). Participants Were Selected Using A Calculated Sample Size Of 150. Data Were Collected Using A Pre-designed, Self-administered Structured Questionnaire Distributed Via Google Forms. The Questionnaire Assessed Socio-demographic Details And Domains Related To Knowledge, Awareness, And Practice Of MSE. Data Were Analyzed Using Statistical Package For Social Sciences Software ( Version 16 ). Results:Among The Participants, 50.7% Had Heard Of MSE, And 59.3% Correctly Identified Its Purpose. While 64.7% Were Aware Of The Components Of MSE And 68.7% Recognized Its Role In Early Detection Of Oral Cancer, Only 32% Had Ever Performed MSE. Knowledge Regarding Risk Factors Was High, With 84.7% Identifying Tobacco As A Major Risk Factor. However, Only 49.3% Could Differentiate Between White And Red Lesions. Despite Limited Practice, 86.7% Expressed Willingness To Recommend MSE To Others. Conclusion:The Study Reveals Moderate Awareness But Poor Practice Of Mouth Self-examination Among Medical Students, With Notable Gaps In Detailed Clinical Knowledge. Integrating Structured Training And Practical Demonstrations Into The Undergraduate Curriculum Is Essential To Bridge The Gap Between Knowledge And Practice, Thereby Enhancing Early Detection Of Oral Cancer.

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Other Details

• Paper id:

  IJSARTV12I4105168

• Published in:

  Volume: 12 Issue: 4 April 2026

• Publication Date:

  2026-04-27

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