Investigator(s)
| Submitter |
Choney Dema School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Japan Choney Dema 
|
| Principal Investigator |
Choney Dema School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki University, Japan Choney Dema
|
| Co-Investigator(s) |
Miho Sato School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, School of Global Humanities and Social Science and Interfaculty Initiative in Planetary Health, Nagasaki University, Japan Miho Sato
|
Title(s) and abstract
| Scientific title | Oral Cancer Preparedness among Dental Professionals in Bhutan: A mixed-methods study of Knowledge, Attitude and Barriers |
| Public title | Oral Cancer Preparedness among Dental Professionals in Bhutan: A mixed-methods study of Knowledge, Attitude and Barriers |
| Background | Oral cancer is the 16th most common cancer worldwide, with the highest incidence and mortality in South and Southeast Asia. Early diagnosis and detection decrease the mortality rate, and dental professionals play a crucial role in early detection and diagnosis. Many studies have been conducted to understand the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) on oral cancer. Findings show uneven oral cancer knowledge, generally positive but lack confidence and inconsistent screening practices. For instance, in an Egyptian study, 80% identified high-risk factors, but only 37.5% performed regular oral examinations, and 26.5% examined lymph nodes, and these findings were echoed in other Asian countries. In Bhutan, cancer is an increasingly significant public health concern. Reported cases almost doubled from 468 cases in 2014 to 819 in 2022. High-risk behaviors such as alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and chewing areca nut, classified class 1 carcinogen are prevalent. Although dental professionals are central to the prevention and early detection of oral cancer, limited research exists in Bhutan. Therefore, this study aims to address this gap by identify good practices and highlighting practical challenges faced by dental professionals in the early detection and treatment of oral cancer in Bhutan. |
| Objectives | This study aims to assess the preparedness of dental professionals in Bhutan regarding oral cancer prevention and early detection by exploring their knowledge, practices, and barriers. In addition, this study will also gather insights from key stakeholders involved in oral cancer prevention and services delivery to understand system-level policies, resources, and structural factors that influence oral cancer control in Bhutan. Through the findings of this research, it can guide future program planning, including training, service delivery, and policy development regarding oral cancer in the country. |
| Study Methods | This study will use a mixed-methods design with a triangulation approach (QUAN + QUAL) to assess the preparedness of dental professionals for oral cancer prevention and early detection in Bhutan. Quantitative and qualitative data will be collected simultaneously, analyzed independently, and integrated during interpretation to produce a comprehensive understanding of oral cancer preparedness. Quantitative data will be collected through a structured self-administered survey questionnaire distributed online via emails. Pilot testing of the questionnaire will be conducted among a selected group of dental professionals to ensure clarity and relevance. Internal consistency will be measured using Cronbach’s alpha. Follow-up reminder emails will be sent to increase response rates. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with selected dental professionals to explore their experiences, challenges, training adequacy, and support systems related to oral cancer prevention, early detection, and treatment. Interviews will also be held with other key stakeholders to gather insights into system-level policies, available resources, and strategies for capacity building on oral cancer. An interview guide will structure the session while allowing flexibility to probe deeper on the participants’ responses. Depending on the participant’s availability and preference, interviews will be conducted either in person or via video call. Each interview is expected to last about 45-60 minutes. All interviews will be audio-recorded and transcribed for analysis with participants' consent. |
| Expected outcomes and use of results | Expected outcomes of the study are as follows: 1. Assess current knowledge of oral cancer risk factors, signs, and prevention among dental professionals. 2. Identify gaps and variations in knowledge, attitudes, and practices across professional groups. 3. Evaluate attitudes toward responsibility and confidence in early detection and prevention. 4. Identify barriers (e.g., lack of training, resources, guidelines) and enablers (e.g., motivation, integration into primary care). 5. Document current clinical and preventive practices, including screening and patient counseling. 6. Provide evidence-based recommendations for training, guidelines, and policy interventions to strengthen oral cancer preparedness in Bhutan. |
| Keywords | KAP, oral cancer, dental professionals, preparedness |
Research Details
| Student research | Yes |
| Institution: School of Tropical Medicine and Global Health, Nagasaki | |
| Academic degree: Master | |
| Supervisor of the student(s) | |
| Full Name and title: Miho Sato, Assoc Professor | |
| Email: mihos@nagasaki-u.ac.jp | |
| Start Date | 01-Nov-2025 |
| End Date | 30-Sep-2026 |
| Key Implementing Institution | Self |
| Multi-country research | No |
| Nationwide research | Yes |
| Research Domain(s) | Non-communicable diseases & Healthy Lifestyles |
| Research field(s) | Other (KAP of health professionals (Dental professionals)) |
| Involves human subjects | Yes |
| Other (Mixed-methods study) | |
| Data Collection | Primary data |
| Proposal reviewed by other Committee | Approved |