Abstract
IntroductionPeople living with HIV (PLWHIV) have increased oral healthcare needs due to an increase in the prevalence of oral and dental diseases. Their oral health is influenced by psychosocial, behavioral and biologic factors. The aim of this study was to explore and obtain a deeper understanding of the oral health beliefs and behaviors of PLWHIV that could potentially affect their oral health.MethodsWe have used the Health Belief Model (HBM) and qualitative methods using in-depth interviews with 16 PLWHIV. Content analysis of the transcribed data was done. The data was grouped under the constructs of the HBM.FindingsThe perceived susceptibility to oral diseases and awareness on the importance of good oral health was low. Regular tooth brushing and traditional methods for oral hygiene maintenance were considered beneficial. Regular dental visits were not considered important. Psychosocial issues, time and financial constraints were the barriers. Participants believed that information on oral health should be provided by the health providers in hospitals and dental clinics. ConclusionThe findings on the oral health beliefs and behaviors support the need for education on oral health and preventive healthcare practices among PLWHIV. Oral health promotion should include behavioral change as one of its components.
Highlights
People living with HIV (PLWHIV) have increased oral healthcare needs due to an increase in the prevalence of oral and dental diseases
The findings on the oral health beliefs and behaviors support the need for education on oral health and preventive healthcare practices among PLWHIV
The data obtained from this research will be used to develop a psychometric instrument to assess the oral health behaviors of PLWHIV. This qualitative study is a part of a larger research project, which aims to study the association between oral health behaviors, oral health status and CD4 count in PLWHIV in Mangalore, Karnataka State, India
Summary
People living with HIV (PLWHIV) have increased oral healthcare needs due to an increase in the prevalence of oral and dental diseases. Their oral health is influenced by psychosocial, behavioral and biologic factors. In India, studies on the oral health status of PLWHIV have reported varied prevalence rates of oral lesions from 68% to 75%, and a poor dental and periodontal status with the DMFT score of 12.83 [11,12,13]. The findings from the baseline data of a study on oral healthcare in PLWHIV in the US reported that oral health is the persistent unmet need among these individuals, with their oral health deteriorating over time [16]
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