Knowledge, attitude and practice of research ethics among dental professionals in dental colleges of South Kerala-A pilot study

Abstract

Background: Research in the field of dentistry is increasing but there is dearth of information investigating the knowledge, attitude and practice of dental professionals for ethical principles in research especially in developing countries like India. The outcome of the present study will help the institution to understand how well research ethics are accepted in their institution. Methods: A cross sectional survey using validated questionnaire was administered to faculty members and postgraduates of two dental colleges in south Kerala. The questionnaire was designed to take approximately 10 minutes to complete and participants were asked to return it in drop box provided at principal’s office. Results: A total of 97/113 dental professionals participated in the study with a response rate of 86%. Based on the questionnaire, there was fair knowledge among the faculties and postgraduates regarding informed consent, research involving children and research on retrospective samples. Less than one fourth of results showed good attitude towards research ethics whereas more than three fourth participants showed moderate attitude. There was no statistically significant difference between faculty and postgraduates on comparison of attitude towards research ethics (p<0.148). With regards to research ethics practice, about half of participants had moderate knowledge and less than half of participants had low knowledge. However, the difference of knowledge among faculty and postgraduates was not statistically significant (p<0.756). Conclusion: The present study highlights the need for nationwide study about research ethics to determine the generalizability of the results and the importance of research ethics training program .