Assessment of Knowledge of DNA among Dental Students in Chennai, India

Although there have been several recent advances in genomic technology over the past two decades, little to no change has occurred in the incorporation of genetics in dental school curricula.Also, there are only a limited number of studies that have reported the knowledge and awareness of genetics in dental professionals.With the available information, the present study was conducted to analyze the knowledge of DNA among dental students.This cross-sectional study was conducted among 302 dental students from various Dental Colleges across Chennai to assess the knowledge of DNA among dental students.It was done using a questionnaire survey from May 2021 to June 2021comprising of 14 questions that were validated owing to the pandemic situation, the survey was conducted online using Google Forms Student T-test was planned to statistically analyze the result.The mean percentage of correct responses from students of various academic years was calculated and it was observed that interns had better knowledge and interest in genetics (81.39%), followed by final-year students (80.9%), first-year students 75%, third-year students (74.76%) and second-year students (73.07%).Considering gender, females (77.21%) had better knowledge of genetics than males (75.2%).The results were not statistically significant.The basic concepts of genetics and applications of genetics have to be incorporated into the dental curriculum.This can also be accomplished by conducting educational programs during the study and continuing dental educational programs after they complete their course.