Determining the Knowledge and Attitude of Medical Intern Students about the Effect of Periodontal Diseases on Systemic Diseases

Background: Periodontal diseases are prevalent chronic multifactorial conditions that significantly affect individuals' quality of life across various dimensions. Additionally, the association and impact of periodontal disease on systemic health have been a focus of medical attention for many years. This influence is particularly recognized as a risk factor in several conditions, notably coronary artery disease. Consequently, enhancing awareness and improving the attitudes of healthcare professionals toward this association is of great importance. Numerous studies have been conducted to evaluate the level of awareness and attitudes regarding this impact. This study has investigated the knowledge and attitude of medical intern students of Kashan University of Medical Sciences. Methods: In this descriptive study, a knowledge of the effect of periodontal disease on systemic diseases and their attitude towards periodontal in medical interns of Kashan University of Medical Sciences, a total of 160 people who were selected by census method, were investigated using a questionnaire based on the study by Thomas and Pralhad in 2011. The obtained data was analyzed by SPSS software with independent t-tests, one-way analysis of variance, and Pearson's correlation coefficient. Results: A total of 160 medical interns were surveyed. There was a significant positive correlation between the age of students and their attitude toward periodontal health (p=0.024). Additionally, the student's knowledge and attitudes toward periodontal health were not significantly associated with the level of information abo ut periodontal disease or the predominant source of oral health information (p>0.05). Moreover, knowledge of the impact of systemic diseases or conditions on periodontal disease was significantly correlated with awareness of the impact of systemic diseases on periodontal health (p<0.001). Furthermore, attitudes toward periodontal health showed a significant positive correlation with knowledge of the systemic impact on periodontal disease (p<0.01). Conclusion: The results of the study indicated that the participant's knowledge regarding the impact of periodontal disease on systemic health is moderate. While the majority of participants assess their knowledge about periodontal issues as insufficient, they believe that clinical and theoretical education related to this topic should be included in the curriculum of their studies. Furthermore, they express a positive attitude toward acquiring more information and education on this matter.