Peer-reviewed article
Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and awareness regarding age estimation using forensic odontology among Karnataka Labour Department Officials: A cross-sectional survey.
Satelur KP, Annegowda VM, Priya YBG, Prakash B ·
Summary
Written by AI, not yet AICS's view · claude-haiku-4-5-20251001This study surveyed 80 officials from Karnataka's Labour Department about their knowledge of forensic odontology for age estimation in child labour cases. Most officials had heard of the technique but learned about it mainly through media rather than formal training. Officials recognised its potential value but identified lack of training and limited resources as barriers to using it in practice.
Key points
- A majority of Labour Department officials were aware of forensic odontology but had inadequate formal knowledge
- Officials' primary source of information was media rather than structured training programmes
- Most participants acknowledged the significance of forensic odontology in age estimation for child labour cases
- Limited access to resources and lack of training were identified as major barriers to implementation
- Officials expressed interest in undergoing formal training in forensic odontology
Limitations
The study only assessed knowledge and attitudes among officials; it did not evaluate whether implementing forensic odontology would actually improve child labour detection or enforcement outcomes. The survey was limited to one Indian state and does not show whether similar gaps exist elsewhere.
Abstract
Context Child labour remains a significant concern in India, with numerous children engaged in hazardous occupations, often lacking valid age documentation. Forensic odontology, a specialised discipline within dentistry, can play a pivotal role in age estimation and individual identification in such cases. However, its integration into child labour enforcement mechanisms is limited. Aim To assess the knowledge, attitude, and awareness of Karnataka State Labour Department officials regarding the role of forensic odontology in age estimation related to child labour cases. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 80 officials from the Karnataka State Labour Department, each with a minimum of 5 years of experience. A structured questionnaire comprising 20 items assessed knowledge, attitude, and awareness regarding forensic odontology and its relevance to child labour cases. Multivariate data analysis was performed using The Unscrambler X software from CAMO Analytics. Results While a majority of officials had heard of forensic odontology, their primary source of information was media rather than formal training. Most participants acknowledged the significance of forensic odontology in age estimation and expressed interest in undergoing formal training. However, limited access to resources and lack of training were cited as major barriers to its implementation. Conclusion The study reveals a significant knowledge and training gap among Labour Department officials regarding forensic odontology. Incorporating structured training programs and promoting interdisciplinary collaboration could enhance the effective application of forensic odontology in child labour cases.