Baseline Assessment and Post-Intervention Evaluation of Knowledge Regarding Oral Submucous Fibrosis Among Medical and Dental Practitioners

Haifa Saquib  Baqai; Asma Seher  Ansari; Marjan  Alam Khan; Bhunesha  Devi; Umer  Khayam; Syeda Noureen Iqbal

doi:10.51253/pafmj.v76iSUPPL-10.14464

Authors

Haifa Saquib Baqai Department of Oral Biology, Fatima Jinnah Dental College, Karachi Pakistan
Asma Seher Ansari Department of Oral Biology, Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences/Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi Pakistan
Marjan Alam Khan Department of Oral Biology, Fatima Jinnah Dental College, Karachi Pakistan
Bhunesha Devi Department of Oral Pathology, Hamdard University, Islamabad Pakistan
Umer Khayam Department of Oral Pathology, Hamdard University, Islamabad Pakistan
Syeda Noureen Iqbal Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dr Ishrat-ul-Ebad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences/Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi Pakistan

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.51253/pafmj.v76iSUPPL-10.14464

Keywords:

Educational Intervention, Fibrosis, Healthcare Practitioners, Oral Submucous

Abstract

Objective: To assess the current approach and post intervention evaluation of knowledge activity in the management of oral sub mucous fibrosis among dental and medical practitioners.

Study Design: Quasi-experimental study.

Place and Duration of study: Dow University of Health Sciences and Fatima Jinnah Dental College Karachi, Pakistan from Oct 2025 to Mar 2026.

Methodology: Data were collected from 300 practitioners using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Baseline knowledge, attitude, and practice were assessed, followed by an educational intervention as an informational brochure. Post-intervention knowledge was reassessed.

Results: At baseline, dental practitioners showed significantly higher knowledge and better clinical practices compared to medical practitioners (p<0.05). Positive attitudes were observed in both groups, although was higher among dental practitioners. Following the educational intervention, a significant improvement in knowledge scores was observed in both groups (p<0.05), with a relative increase among medical practitioners.

Conclusion: Significant gaps exist in the knowledge and clinical practices of medical practitioners compared to dental practitioners. The educational intervention improved knowledge, emphasizing the importance of targeted educational programs for enhancing early detection and management of OSF.

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