Knowledge and awareness assessment of dental students about malignant melanoma

Background: Epidemiological studies have shown an increased tendency to malignant melanoma worldwide. Dentistry students need comprehensive up-to-date information about malignant melanoma to give their patients correct advice. The purpose of this study is to assess 3^rd, 4^th, and 5^th grade students' level of knowledge and awareness about malignant melanoma. Materials and Methods: In our study, a questionnaire consisting of 11 questions was applied to a total of 229 students, 93 3^rd grade, 64 4^th grade, and 72 5^th grade students who were educated at Marmara University, Faculty of Dentistry. In this survey, students' level of knowledge and awareness was examined. Results: A total of 75 (32.75%) male and 154 (67.25%) female students were included in the study. There was a statistically significant difference between grades in terms of participation rate to the statement “Oral melanomas are more aggressive than skin involvement” (P = 0.000). Participation rate of 3^rd grades (30.11%) was significantly lower than 4^th grades (45.31%) and 5^th grades (48.61%) (P1 = 0.004; P2=, 0.000). There was a statistically significant difference between grades in terms of participation rate to the statement “Oral melanoma lesions are usually asymptomatic” (P = 0,000). Participation rate of 3^rd grades (15.05%) was significantly lower than 4^th grades (39.06%) and 5^th grades (58.33%) (P1 = 0.002; P2 = 0.000). Participation rate of 4^th grades was significantly lower than 5^th grades (P = 0.033). Conclusion: Providing the necessary training on malignant melanoma will improve the knowledge and awareness of dentistry students.