KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND AWARENESS ABOUT HYPERTENSION AMONG DENTAL STUDENTS IN SAVEETHA DENTAL COLLEGE

PAVITHRA H DAVE; DR ARCHANA SANTHANAM

Volume : VII, Issue : V, May - 2017

KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND AWARENESS ABOUT HYPERTENSION AMONG DENTAL STUDENTS IN SAVEETHA DENTAL COLLEGE

Pavithra H Dave, Dr Archana Santhanam

Abstract :

OBJECTIVE: Hypertension is a major burden to global health care. It has developing risks in both developed and developing countries. Knowledge on hypertension is not only necessary among the patients but should also be conveyed to the general population as it is vital to realize the seriousness of hypertension as a disease. The purpose of this research study was to evaluate the knowledge about hypertension among dental students working in Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Chennai. MATERIALS AND METHOD: The study was a structured, self administrable online questionnaire consisting of eleven multiple choice questions (MCQs), encompassing major aspects of hypertension. RESULTS: The study assessed the knowledge and awareness about the etiology and risk factors of hypertension and its association with 100 entry level students in one dental college. The gap in knowledge regarding both risk factors and prevention was identified and thus demonstrated that comprehensive knowledge is lacking among the dental students. CONCLUSION: Although the awareness among the dental students is satisfactory , the knowledge, attitude and awareness on the risk factors, medications and lifestyle practices provides a need to educate and motivate them on hypertension on a regular basis in the curriculum.