Work

Exploring the knowledge, attitudes, and potential role of oral health practitioners in FASD screening in South Africa

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: South Africa has the highest global burden of foetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASD), yet awareness and prioritisation among healthcare professionals remain limited. Oral health practitioners (OHPs) are well-positioned to support FASD screening due to their community presence and craniofacial expertise. This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and readiness of South African OHPs to engage in FASD screening. METHODS: A cross-sectional online survey was distributed to South African OHPs, including dentists, dental specialists, oral hygienists, and dental therapists. The survey explored participants' knowledge of FASD, recognition of the cardinal features, willingness to screen for, and perceived barriers to screening. Responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. RESULTS: Of the 147 respondents, 70% (n = 109) were dentists. While most indicated they were comfortable discussing alcohol-related health problems, only 20.4% (n = 30) routinely asked patients about alcohol use. Awareness of the national FASD burden was low, with just 39.5% (n = 58) aware that South Africa has the highest global prevalence. Most participants (79.6%, n = 117) considered knowledge about FASD relevant to patient management. Regarding screening, 85.7% (n = 126) agreed that OHPs should play a role. Interest in additional training on FASD and its screening was high (90.5%, n = 133), with oral hygienists showing the greatest interest (97%, n = 31). Key barriers identified included unclear referral pathways and concerns about the stigma associated with diagnosis. Although the response rate was low, the sample represented a geographically and professionally diverse group. CONCLUSION: The findings reveal substantial knowledge gaps among South African OHPs regarding FASD, but also indicate strong interest and readiness to advance their knowledge . To support the integration of FASD screening into oral healthcare practice, targeted training, clear referral systems, and curriculum inclusion are needed. Reducing stigma and promoting public acceptance will further enable OHPs to contribute meaningfully to early identification and interventions for FASD.

Source: BMC Oral Health

DOI: 10.1186/s12903-025-07017-8

Authors: Imaan Amina Roomaney, Clement Nyirenda, Manogari Chetty

Institution: University of the Western Cape

Language: English

Topic: Prenatal Substance Exposure Effects

Subfield: Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,190