Conocimientos y actitudes de los estudiantes de medicina sobre el diagnóstico y manejo medico bucal en pacientes con cáncer de cabeza y cuello

Abstract

Introduction: Head and neck cancer, which affects areas such as the oral cavity and adjacent structures, presents significant challenges for both patients and healthcare professionals. Oral complications arising from oncological treatments can significantly impact patients' quality of life. Objective: To assess the level of knowledge and attitudes regarding dental management in head and neck cancer patients among third- and fourth-year medical students from a university in northeastern Colombia during the first semester of 2024. Materials and Methods: An analytical cross-sectional observational study was conducted through a survey administered to 150 medical students. Sociodemographic variables, knowledge, and attitudes about dental management in patients with head and neck cancer were assessed through a questionnaire validated by experts, consisting of a total of 30 questions. Statistical analysis was performed using Stata/MP 14.0: absolute and relative frequencies, median and IQR in univariate analysis, as well as bivariate analysis with chi-square, Fisher’s exact test, and Mann-Whitney U test (p-value ≤0.05). Results: 67.33% were female, with a median age of 20 (IQR 19-22), 65.33% were in their fourth semester, and 32.00% belonged to socioeconomic status 4. A high level of knowledge (81%) and a medium level of attitudes (56%) were observed. Women showed a higher level of knowledge (p=0.03), and no other statistically significant associations were found. Conclusion: The results indicate that, although medical students have adequate knowledge regarding the dental management of cancer patients, it is necessary to strengthen their practical training and attitudes towards multidisciplinary work, which is crucial to ensuring comprehensive and quality care for patients.