KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS LEVEL OF BISPHOSPHONATES IMPLICATIONS FOR PATIENT HEALTH: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY
Abstract
Background: Anti-resorptive agents used widely for osteoporosis and other bone disorders include bisphosphonates. However, there has been insufficient awareness by dental professionals of the clinical significance, especially with regard to medication related osteonecrosis of the jaw (MRONJ). Objective: The purpose of the present study was to assess bisphosphonate knowledge as well as awareness among Saudi senior dental students, dental interns, and general dentists and the implications of this regarding patient health. Methods: From July to December 2024, a cross-sectional survey was carried using the validated-on line questionnaire circulated through social media platforms. Dental students, interns and general dentists taking part in the study were from Saudi Arabia. The demographic data and general knowledge regarding bisphosphonates, their indications for use, mechanisms of action, risk factors and side effects were assessed from the questionnaire. Results: Fifty-two-point six percent of participants were female and had an average age of 25.6 years with a total of 530 participants. Participants were most familiar with bisphosphonates (78.3%), but only 43.6% named Alendronate and 29.6% were aware of how it works. More than 30 percent positively answered all three knowledge questions, but notably very few correctly identified osteonecrosis of the jaw as a major risk. Moreover, respondents showed low levels of understanding (60.6%) regarding bisphosphonates and they expressed interest (84.7%) in additional training. Conclusion: Therefore, the study points out a worrying lack of knowledge about bisphosphonates amongst dental students and practicians in Saudi Arabia. There is a basic knowledge of bisphosphonates, but there was little understanding of how they work and, most importantly, what they mean for patient health, especially with regard to MRONJ. These results highlight the importance of heightened educational efforts incorporated into dental curricula to prepare future dental professionals appropriately to address risks associated with bisphosphonate therapy.