Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Pediatricians toward Early Childhood Caries in Upper Egypt (A Cross-Sectional Study )

Abstract

Aim of the study: Evaluation of the pediatricians' knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward early childhood caries (ECC) in Upper Egypt. Subjects and Methods:A survey was conducted among 215 pediatricians working in 3 governorates in Upper Egypt: Beni Suef, Minia, and Qena. The survey included questions regarding the demographic characteristics of the participants, and questions assessing pediatricians' knowledge, attitude, and practice toward ECC. Both paper-based and online forms of the survey were available to deliver the questionnaire.Results: Two-thirds of the participants (66.1%) had moderate knowledge of ECC and almost all the participants (99.1%) showed a good attitude. Regarding practices, 98.1% of pediatricians provided dietary habits advice, 66% of them recommended different preventive measures and 93.5% recommended regular tooth brushing. Pediatricians working at educational hospitals showed the highest statistically significant knowledge level (p = 0.001, Effect size = 0.082). Conclusions:Pediatricians in Upper Egypt had moderate knowledge, a good attitude, and a satisfactory level of practice toward ECC.