Community pharmacists' knowledge, attitude and practice of oral health care in Asir region, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives: To assess community pharmacists' knowledge, attitude and practice towards oral health care in Asir region, Saudi Arabia.

Methods: A prospective cross-sectional study was carried out using a self-administered structured questionnaire, targeting 254 community pharmacies across the Asir region. The questionnaire consisted of four domains: demographics, knowledge, attitudes and practice related to oral health care. Statistical analysis was performed using Social Sciences (SPSS) version 23.0.

Results: Of the 254 pharmacists, 202 respondents completed the survey, yielding a response rate of 79.5%. Almost two-thirds (66%) of the community pharmacists exhibited good knowledge, 65% possessed a positive attitude, and 55% perceived a good practice towards oral health care. Pharmacists have shown a good understanding on dental care (p < 0.001) and oral conditions. Fifty-five per cent (n = 119) of pharmacists preferred to have dental-based subjects in Pharmacy curriculum.

Conclusion: Community Pharmacists possess overall good knowledge and attitude required for the provision of dental care counselling patients. They may participate in oral health development programmes to make a better practice.

Keywords: KAP study; community pharmacists; oral health care.