ORAL HEALTH CARE AND ORAL HYGIENE PRODUCTS RELATED KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOUR AMONG LOCAL PHARMACISTS IN SRINAGAR- A CROSS?SECTIONAL SURVEY

Asif Yousuf*, Mohsin Sidiq and Iram Jan

ABSTRACT

Background: Early screening of the diseases and referral by health professionals may benefit to improve the access to oral health measures and to reduce the associated morbidity and mortality. Majority of the population approach pharmacists for their health problems. Hence, Pharmacists should have adequate knowledge about oral health and also they should play an active role in oral health promotion, identification and referral. The aim of the present study was to assess knowledge, attitude and practice of local pharmacists regarding oral healthcare and oral hygiene products in Srinagar. Material and Methods: A survey was conducted among local pharmacists working within Srinagar city using a self‑structured, pre‑tested, closed‑ended questionnaire. The study was conducted among 72 pharmacists of Srinagar city. The data was collected and analyzed. Comparison between variables by Chi square test and ANOVA test with the level of significance set at P <0.05. Results: The response rate was 97.29%. Majority of the pharmacists stocked and dispensed oral health-related products. Toothbrush (34.72%) was the most common oral healthcare product stocked followed by toothpaste and dental floss. Pharmacists advised patients complaining of dental pain to consult a dentist in 45.83% of cases, prescribed medication in 30.55% of cases. Conclusions: Pharmacists working within Srinagar city had moderate knowledge, attitude and practice regarding oral health care and oral hygiene products. There is a need for training and comprehensive educational programs to promote good oral hygiene and impart education about correct oral hygiene practices among pharmacists. Oral health knowledge should be inculcated in the curriculum for all health care professionals including Pharmacists.

Keywords: Oral health, oral hygiene products, pharmacists, toothache.