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Published on: February 2, 2020
Dentists' knowledge and practices in supportive care: a French national survey
Caroline de Bataille1, Colas Prunier2, Manon Saucourt2
1Department of Oral Medicine, Supportive Care Department, Oncopole Claudius Regaud, Institut Universitaire du Cancer Toulouse- Oncopole, Toulouse, France.
Purpose:
Oral supportive care is essential in comprehensive cancer management, particularly for patients with head and neck cancer and those with hematologic cancers, who experience significant oral complications. While supportive care has been extensively explored in medical oncology, dentists' knowledge and practices regarding oral supportive care for cancer patients remain understudied. This study aimed to assess French dentists' knowledge, practices, and training needs regarding supportive care for cancer patients.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was distributed electronically to dental surgeons across France through Departmental Councils of the Order of Dental Surgeons. The questionnaire investigated practitioners' knowledge of cancer patient management, care modalities, encountered difficulties, knowledge of supportive care, and training needs.
Results:
Among 165 respondents, 96% reported treating cancer patients, with head and neck cancers being significantly over-represented compared to general population incidence. Among respondents, 89% expressed concern about supportive care in oncology, while 73% rated their knowledge in this area below 5/10, and 27% were unaware of risks associated with cancer therapies. Head and neck cancers (54%) and hematological malignancies (15%) presented the greatest management challenges. The most common difficulties included performing invasive procedures (46.7%), writing prescriptions (45.8%), and completing medical questionnaires (40.2%). Only 29% of dentists reported having knowledge of supportive care in oncology, with 89% expressing a need for further training.
Conclusion:
French dentists demonstrate concern about their role in cancer patient care, yet face significant knowledge gaps and training deficiencies. Enhanced educational programs, improved interprofessional communication, and clear clinical guidelines specifically designed for dental professionals are needed to optimize supportive care delivery for cancer patients.
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