Abstract

Objective: To assess the level of knowledge, attitude and practices among the practicing dentists regarding modes of transmission Hepatitis B disease for the patients.
Methodology: This cross-sectional descriptive study collected data from dentists at private clinics. Duration of study was 2 months and sample size was 70 subjects. Close ended questionnaire was used to collect the information regarding knowledge, attitudes and practice for hepatitis B. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis.
Results: Out of 70 participants, there were 23(44.3%) males and 47(55.7%) females. Only 55 (78.6%) answered that HBV is contagious, 14 (20%) said no and 1 (1.4%) was not sure. On asking, HBV carrier may look healthy without showing any symptoms of the disease, 61 (87.1%) said yes. On asking, “Do you think medical personnel infected with hepatitis B should avoid patient treatment”, 24.3% said yes, 45.7% said no and 40% did not know. All thought “Vaccination is mandatory by higher health authorities”. Only one was afraid of injection and 5.7% thought “It is not effective in disease protection”. Most (97.1%) disagreed to statement “I am not at high risk of contracting HBV.
Conclusion: Dentists had an sufficient knowledge about the hepatitis B virus itself, it’s risk factors and transmission. However, they lacked self-assurance and gave incoherent opinions about the defensive measures. Their awareness about their own behaviour about possible risks factors and occupational supervision was also varying.

Key words: Hepatitis, blood borne infection, unsterilized.