Publication

Abstract : Oral cancer is the most common cancer among the adults. The incidence of oral cancer is increasing in India especially in persons with continuous use of tobacco and tobacco products. The present descriptive study was conducted among adults in a selected community Vazhayoor, Malappuram. The objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge regarding prevention of oral cancer among adults and to find out the association between socio demographic variables and knowledge. The conceptual frame work of this study was based on Dr. Nola J Pender’s Health Promotion Model (HPM). A sample of 100 adults was selected using convenient sampling technique. A non- experimental approach with structured questionnaire was used for this study. The tools used were socio demographic data, questionnaire to find out knowledge regarding prevention of oral cancer. The data collected were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings of the study showed that majority of the subjects (32%) were 31-40 years old, about 38% of samples were males and 62% were females. About 53% of samples have high school education and 21% have degree and above. About 56% of samples were homemakers, 23% have private job. It was found that 33% of subjects have good knowledge on prevention of oral cancer and 64% subjects have average knowledge on prevention of oral cancer. It was revealed that there is no significant association between age, gender, educational status, occupation, type of family, monthly family income and knowledge regarding prevention of oral cancer among adults.