Bridging gaps in pediatric oral mucositis management: insights into practitioner knowledge, attitudes and practices across three nations

Background: Oral mucositis (OM) is a common and severe complication of anti-neoplastic therapy, affecting up to 100% of pediatric patients receiving high-dose cancer treatments. Despite its prevalence, gaps in interdisciplinary collaboration and variations in management approaches persist. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of healthcare professionals managing OM in pediatric oncology patients across Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Malaysia. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1020 practitioners, including dentists and oncologists, using a structured questionnaire. The survey assessed their awareness, behavior, and treatment approaches toward OM management. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 21.0, employing Chi-square and Spearman’s correlation tests to evaluate associations between demographic variables and responses. Results: There were 1020 responses from the practitioners of the three countries with majority of the females (62.1%) trailed by males (37.9%). The range of the age was 29–61 yr. In general, higher than 62.8% of individuals from three countries demonstrated to have adequate level of awareness related to the OM. Though more than 83% of the practitioners did not shown willingness of discussing therapeutic options with the patient/guardians; additionally the practitioners preferred to treat the patient for OM without further referral to the specialist treating the oral diseases (71%–92%). The practitioner stated limitation in inter-disciplinary collaborations among the specialties; notably between oncologists and dental practitioners. Majority of the practitioners of three countries stated to have interest in early detection and learning new therapeutic modalities for OM (70%). Conclusions: The study underscores the need for enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, practitioner training, and patient education to optimize OM management in pediatric oncology. Addressing these gaps through evidence-based interventions and innovative therapies could improve treatment outcomes and quality of life for affected patients.

Oral mucositis; Pediatric; Awareness; Comportment; Practice

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