The influence of patient education by the dental hygienist: acceptance of the fluorescence oral cancer exam.

PURPOSE Oral cancer frequently goes undetected in its early and most curable stages because no clinical signs or symptoms usually exist. This study assessed the effect patient education had on the patient's decision to accept or refuse a fluorescence oral cancer examination. METHODS Along with providing a routine clinical and white light oral cancer exam, a Visually Enhanced Lesion Scope (VELscope) was used to evaluate the patient's oral cavity. After gaining written consent, 100 patients at a university dental hygiene clinic were provided a survey that evaluated their risk factors, opinions, and knowledge regarding oral cancer. Upon assessing the patient's willingness to receive a free oral fluorescence examination, the survey questioned if being charged a fee for the exam would serve as a deterrent to receiving it. Regardless of acceptance or refusal of the exam, the patient was educated, first by a brochure, and then by discussion with the researcher, about oral cancer. RESULTS Overall, 92% of participants agreed to pay a fee for the VELscope exam. Of those who initially refused the VELscope exam, 78% agreed to the exam after being educated about oral cancer. Patients were very appreciative of both the education and technology offered to them. CONCLUSIONS Dental professionals have a responsibility to educate their patients about oral cancer in order to enable them to make informed decisions about their oral and overall health. Additionally, patient education has a significant impact on patient acceptance of the VELscope exam.