Abstract
Introduction: The most common sexually-transmitted viral infection is human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV-16 is highly associated with oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the awareness and knowledge of oral health practitioners (OHPs) in Saudi Arabia concerning HPV and its association with oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), and also OHPs' perceived role in HPV prevention. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional, electronic-based, validated questionnaire survey was conducted among dental practitioners between 8 July and 1 August 2018. Results and discussion: Out of a total number of 204 participants, 51.5% stated that the virus was not a causative factor for OSCC. Lateral border of the tongue was identified by 44.6% of the participants as the typical site for HPV-related OSCC. Only 22.5% of them were aware of the availability of the HPV vaccine in Saudi Arabia, while most (93.1%) agreed that dentists need education programs and preventive strategies to fight OSCC. Conclusions: The current study revealed that more than half of the participants (51.5%) believed that the virus is not a causative factor for OSCC. Only 38.2% of them have informed their patients about HPV and its association with OSCC. Clearly, a systematic awareness campaign is required for OHPs regarding the relation between HPV and OSCC.