Hygienic Conditions Research Articles

Under five children diarrhea prevalence and associated factors in slum areas of Gondar City Northwest Ethiopia: a community based cross-sectional study

Slum areas in Ethiopia have high poverty status. In addition, they possess poor water and sanitation accesses such as unsafe drinking water, a lower number of sanitation facilities and poor hygienic conditions. These scenarios are important in the occurrence of diarrhea among under five children’s. However, there are many studies conducted on diarrhea among under five children in Ethiopia, unfortunately, the majority usually didn’t give enough coverage for the burden of diarrhea among under five children in slum areas. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of diarrhea and associated factors among under five children in slum areas of Gondar City. This community-based cross-sectional study was conducted in slum areas of Gondar City among under five children from March 28 to April 28, 2023. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to collect a sample of 836 through interview-administered methods using a structured data collection tool. The collected data was manually checked for completeness, coded, and entered into EPI Info version 7.1.5.2 software. It was then exported to Stata version 14.1 software for descriptive analysis, as well as bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses, to identify factors associated with diarrhea among under five children. The prevalence of diarrhea among under five children at 95% confidence interval was 24.64% (CI 21.71–27.56). Mothers/caretakers age < 25 years (AOR = 1.88, 95% CI 1.16–3.06), mothers/caretakers age between 28 and 31 years (AOR = 1.82, 95% CI 1.08–3.05), mothers/caretakers who had no formal education (AOR = 3.18, 95% CI 1.86–5.41), mothers/caretakers who had primary education (AOR = 1.67, 95% CI 1.09–2.57), income level between 4877 and 5643 Ethiopian Birr (AOR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.04–3.15), family size greater than five (AOR = 1.54, 95% CI 1.00–2.36), flies around the house (AOR = 2.27, 95% CI 1.38–3.73), playground not clean (AOR = 2.70, 95% CI 1.62–4.50), breastfed for ≥ 1 year (AOR = 0.63, 95% CI 0.41–0.97), mothers/caretakers who did not wash their hands before food preparation and eating (AOR = 2.31, 95% CI 1.39–3.58), mothers/caretakers who did not wash their hands after visiting latrine (AOR = 1.60, 95% CI 1.07–2.38) were significantly associated factors with diarrhea among under five children in slum areas of Gondar City. The study indicates that the prevalence of diarrhea was higher among under five children in slum areas of Gondar City. The Gondar City Administration Education Bureau should give great emphasis on improving mother’s and caretaker’s education. In addition, the Gondar City Administration Health Bureau should educate mothers and caretakers about breastfeeding, sanitation, and hygiene in the slum areas of Gondar City.

Analysis of the Species Composition of Wood and Shrubs Species, Their Role in the Structure of City Parks of Osh

In the city of Osh, one of the acute problems when using wood species in landscape design is the study of their ecological properties in relation to the environment. The planting of trees in urban parks, squares along streets and boulevards is influenced by various environmental factors. In such conditions, the study of the ecological state and viability of plants is relevant, since woody plants perform sanitary, hygienic and aesthetic functions in an urbanized environment. The main purpose of this scientific article is to identify in the conditions of the city of Osh, the peculiarities of the development of ornamental species of woody and shrubby plants, the ecological justification of their reconstruction, to improve the sanitary and hygienic condition and the development of practical recommendations in landscape works. The study of the characteristics of tree and shrub species and the results obtained to assess their role in the structure of urban parks in Osh will help to improve their decorative qualities, the correct choice of their placement, care and improvement of the urban environment. The results of the work can also be used in the construction and reconstruction of green spaces in parks in the city of Osh, as well as in the improvement of other public facilities in the city. The practical recommendations obtained from the results of the study initiate a large-scale reconstruction of planted species of trees and shrubs in parks, squares and along modern streets.

Importance of hygienic and sanitary conditions in the manufacture of artisan Coalho cheese

Importance of hygienic and sanitary conditions in the manufacture of artisan Coalho cheese

The Questionnaire on the Use of Public Transportation and Well-Being (QUPTW): A national survey and validation in Paraguay

IntroductionThe impact of public transportation on the human emotional well-being is certainly under-studied, especially in the developing countries. This study proposes and validates a questionnaire aimed to assess the emotional well-being in the context of public transportation use in Paraguay (as in any other Spanish country). MethodsWe conducted an observational cross-sectional study using an online survey to address the relationship between the transport systems and mental health. The newly developed Questionnaire on the Use of Public Transportation and Well-Being (QUPTW) was evaluated for content and construct validity, criterion validity, and reliability. ResultsFindings from 918 respondents have shown that the QUPTW reports strong psychometric properties, including validity and reliability. Participants, primarily young, university-educated women residing in Greater Asunción, reported dissatisfaction with the public transportation services. Long commute times, discomfort, and poor hygiene and safety conditions are significant contributors leading to emotional distress. These findings underscore the potential impact of the inadequate public transportation systems on mental well-being, suggesting the need for policy interventions to enhance accessibility, comfort, and safety. ConclusionsThis study contributes to the understanding of the relationship between the public transportation use and the emotional well-being and provides a valuable tool for further research and policy development.

Innovations in oral hygiene tools: a mini review on recent developments

BackgroundThis review examines advancements in oral hygiene aids and their impact on gingival and periodontal health. As periodontal diseases are widespread, effective hygiene is vital. Enhancements in traditional tools and innovations have improved oral hygiene status. Clinical evidence confirms these innovations improve gingival and periodontal health, though proper use and patient adherence are crucial.MethodologyA comprehensive literature search was conducted using MeSH terms like “Gingivitis/prevention &amp;amp; control*”, “Dental Plaque/prevention &amp;amp; control*”, “Dentifrices”, “Electrical Equipment and Supplies*”, “Toothbrushing”, “Equipment Design”, “Anti-Infective Agents/therapeutic use”, “Oils, Volatile/therapeutic use”, “Dental Devices, Home Care”, “Dentifrices*/therapeutic use”, “Vibration”, “Gingivitis*/drug therapy”, “Gingivitis*/prevention &amp;amp; control”, “Gingival Hemorrhage/prevention &amp;amp; control”, “Anti-Inflammatory Agents/pharmacology”, “Chlorhexidine/pharmacology”, “Mouthwashes/pharmacology”, “Anti-Bacterial Agents/pharmacology”, “Mouthwashes/therapeutic use”, “Anti-Infective Agents, Local*/therapeutic use”, “Mouthwashes/chemistry*”, “Plant Extracts/therapeutic use*”, “Sodium Dodecyl Sulfate/therapeutic use*”, “Treatment Outcome”, “Oral Hygiene/methods”, “Toothpastes/therapeutic use*”, “Hyaluronic Acid/therapeutic use”, “Chronic Periodontitis*/therapy”, “Periodontal Attachment Loss/therapy”, “Probiotics*/therapeutic use”, “Oral Hygiene*”, “Periodontal Index” and so on. This search utilized PubMed and Google Scholar, restricted to English-language publications from 2018 to 2024. The screening process involved reviewing titles, abstracts, and keywords, focusing on randomized clinical trials only. Inclusion criteria focused on novel innovations in conventional oral hygiene methodologies. A total of 86 randomized clinical trial articles met the inclusion criteria.ResultsRecent innovations in traditional oral hygiene tools have markedly enhanced oral hygiene levels and patient compliance. These newer innovations demonstrate substantial efficacy in plaque control and gingival health. Clinical outcomes underscore their pivotal role in improving oral hygiene standards, promoting reduced gingivitis and enhanced patient adherence to oral care regimens.ConclusionAdvanced oral hygiene aids significantly improve gingival and periodontal health. However, patient adherence and correct usage are crucial for their optimal performance. Incorporating advanced oral hygiene aids into daily practices is essential for achieving optimal periodontal health, and continuous education is necessary to ensure their effective use.

Entrepreneurship skills in Dairy Industry: A Critical Study on Importance of Hygienic Conditions in Dairy Industry

Entrepreneurship skills in Dairy Industry: A Critical Study on Importance of Hygienic Conditions in Dairy Industry

Evaluation of Survival and Durability of Fixed Prosthodontic Restorations in a Tertiary Dental Centre of Eastern Nepal

Background: Fixed prosthodontic restorations play a pivotal role in dental rehabilitation, providing essential functions such as mastication, aesthetics, and oral health preservation. This study aims to assess the survival of fixed prosthodontic restorations within the context of a tertiary dental centre in Eastern Nepal. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted among 228 patients, involving a comprehensive analysis of patient records from the tertiary dental centre. Data were collected on patient demographics, types of fixed prosthodontic restorations (e.g., crowns, bridges), materials used, adhesive systems, follow-up durations, and any recorded instances of restoration failure. Patient satisfaction scores, including aesthetic outcomes, comfort, and functionality, were also assessed. Results: The mean age of patients undergoing fixed prosthodontic restorations was 43.1 years, predominantly male (66.7%), with good systematic health (68.4%) and varying levels of oral hygiene. Oral hygiene status, parafunctional habits, restoration type, and subjective experiences such as comfort, functionality, and aesthetic satisfaction were all significantly associated with survival rates (p &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: The results may have implications for clinical decision-making, informing practitioners about the most effective materials and techniques for enhancing the durability of fixed prostheses in this region. Further research and continuous evaluation are crucial for refining prosthodontic practices and ensuring optimal patient care in the unique healthcare landscape of Eastern Nepal.

A Review on Mastitis in Dairy Cows Research: Current Status and Future Perspectives

One of the most serious diseases affecting dairy cattle, causing significant losses both in breeding and economy, is mastitis, an inflammation of the mammary gland. Due to the economic importance of this issue, many research teams are striving to develop an easy-to-apply and, most importantly, effective method to prevent mastitis. The use of traditional methods for mastitis detecting and treating, as well as improvement in hygienic conditions, have not yielded the expected results in combating this disease combating. Currently, the main task is to find the tools that would allow for the rapid detection of mastitis and the improvement of udder health in cows while maintaining high milk production, which is essential for the profitability of dairy cattle farming. Accurate and rapid diagnostic tools, with the simultaneous capability of identifying pathogens, may help to reduce losses. Sufficient sensitivity and specificity for tests are required to minimize the number of false-positive and false-negative cases. Efforts are also being made to determine the optimal threshold value for detecting the disease at its earliest possible stage. The estimation of somatic cell count (SCC) as a phenotypic indicator of mastitis is widely used. A more precise parameter for accurately describing udder health is the differential somatic cell count (DSCC). The well-known California Mastitis Test (CMT) is an inexpensive, easy, and rapid method for mastitis detection useful on farms. The latest diagnostic methods for mastitis utilize tests based on the activity of N-acetyl-β-d-glucosaminidase (NAGase) or lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) as well as the determination of acute phase proteins (APPs) in blood serum and milk (such as haptoglobin, serum amyloid A, fibrinogen, and ceruloplasmin). Research also focuses on the genomic improvement of mastitis resistance in successive generations, and for this purpose, many quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been identified. In recent years, immunotherapy has become an increasingly common area of research, including vaccinations, T/B cell immunotherapy, RNA immunotherapy, epigenetic immunotherapy, stem cell therapy, and native secretory factors. An important aspect of the control of mastitis is the implementation of strategies that focus primarily on preventing the disease through appropriate breeding and farm management practices. In the forthcoming years, a significant challenge will be the development of universal diagnostic and therapeutic strategies that can be effectively implemented as alternatives to antibiotic therapy. Future research should prioritize the advancement of preventive and therapeutic techniques, such as immunotherapies, bacteriocins, herbal therapy, and nanoparticle technology.

Shrimp Depots: Quality Management Practices and Strategic Approaches in Bangladesh

This study provides valuable insights into the sustainability of shrimp farming and supply chain practices in Bangladesh by focusing on quality management practices in shrimp depots across Paikgacha, Dacope, and Chokoria locations. Using qualitative interviews, surveys, and on-site observations, this study evaluates quality control measures focusing on procurement, processing, storage, product management, and record maintenance in shrimp depots. The depots typically maintained separate storage for shrimp and ice, with significant variability in capacity. The quality of the procured shrimp was assessed through visual and tactile inspections, with common contaminants including ‘push’ (adulterated shrimp), wood, and metal. The competition among depots was intense and driven by the need to secure stable shrimp supplies amid frequent shortages. The hygiene and sanitary conditions varied, with Paikgacha generally showing higher compliance with standards compared to Dacope and Chokoria. The record-keeping practices for shrimp sources were inconsistent, with most depots being unable to trace the exact origins of the purchased shrimp. The study reveals the complex dynamics of shrimp quality management practices in the depots. It highlights areas for improvement that can foster more sustainable and responsible practices in the shrimp industry. These improvements benefit the environment, the economy, and society at large, ensuring product quality and market competitiveness.

Effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing and cross platform messaging application in improving oral health knowledge, attitude and behaviours among pregnant women- A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Body goes through significant hormonal and physiological changes during pregnancy, which could be linked to changes in oral health. Many women are unaware of the negative consequences of poor dental health during and after pregnancy, both for themselves and their children. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the effectiveness of Motivational Interviewing (MI) and cross platform messaging application (WhatsApp messenger) for oral health education on the oral health knowledge, attitude and behaviours among pregnant women attending ante natal care. A randomized controlled trial was conducted among 84 pregnant women. Simple random sampling was employed to select participants after oral examination. Participants were randomly allocated to two groups (Group 1: Cross-platform messaging application [WhatsApp]; Group 2: MI) using a lottery method. Pregnant women aged 18 years and older, gestational age between 8 and 30 weeks were included. A face-to-face interview and oral examination were conducted to assess baseline knowledge and oral hygiene status. A follow-up examination was conducted after one month of intervention. Inferential statistics, including the chi-square test and independent t-test, were used to compare variables between the two groups. The mean knowledge score at baseline was comparable between Group 1 (WhatsApp) and Group 2 (MI). However, post-intervention, Group 2 showed a significantly higher mean knowledge score compared to Group 1. Post-intervention, Group 2 exhibited a significantly better oral hygiene status compared to Group 1. Significant improvements in oral health behaviours were observed in Group 2 compared to Group 1 (p < 0.001). The findings suggested that while both interventions were effective, MI showed superior results in improving knowledge, oral hygiene status, and oral health behaviours. The personalized and client-centred approach of MI enables participants to explore and resolve ambivalence, promoting a deeper understanding of the importance of oral health during pregnancy. Registration: CTRI ( CTRI/2021/09/036407, 10/09/2021).

Effects of sanitary conditions with lipopolysaccharide injection and dietary valine supplementation on growth performance, immune response, bacterial profile, and microbial metabolites in weaned pigs

ABSTRACT This study investigated the effects of dietary L-valine (Val) supplementation and sanitary conditions with lipopolysaccharide injection on growth performance, immune response, and intestinal bacterial profiles and metabolites in weaned pigs. Thirty-two weaned pigs (6.98 ± 0.47 kg) were randomly assigned to treatments in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement based on dietary Val levels and sanitary conditions (low or high). The pigs were fed either a basal diet containing the standard levels of Val suggested by (NRC), (2012) or a basal diet supplemented with 0.1% L-Val. A room designated as a high sanitary room was washed weekly, whereas the designated low sanitary room was not washed throughout the experiment and 5 kg of manure from the nursery pig barn was spread on the pen floors on day 1. All data were analysed using a mixed procedure of SAS, with the individual pen as the experimental unit. The pigs raised in low sanitary conditions exhibited a lower (p < 0.05) average daily gain, average daily feed intake, and gain-to-feed ratio and a higher (p < 0.05) incidence of diarrhoea than those raised in high sanitary conditions during the 14-d experimental period. The pigs in the low sanitary group also had a lower (p < 0.05) concentration of butyrate in the jejunum and a higher (p < 0.05) concentration of NH3-N in the colon than those in the high sanitary group. Dietary Val supplementation was reduced (p < 0.05) plasma interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-1 receptor antagonist concentrations as well as isovalerate and NH3-N concentrations in the colon, regardless of sanitary conditions. Interactions between dietary Val supplementation and sanitary conditions were observed in the abundances of mRNA-encoding β-defensins 113, 125 and 129 (p < 0.05). In conclusion, dietary Val supplementation beneficially modulates inflammatory responses and microbial metabolites regardless of sanitary conditions while transcriptional levels of β-defensins are regulated by dietary Val supplementation in a manner dependent on housing hygiene conditions.

Exploring the water, sanitation and hygiene status and health outcomes in Zimbabwe: a scoping review protocol

BackgroundThe sixth United Nations Sustainable Development Goal emphasises universal access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) to ensure human well-being as a fundamental human right for sustainable development. In...

Oral hygiene status and oral care motivation in children aged 7–9 years in a Vietnam primary school: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionOral hygiene is a crucial factor in oral health, especially in children. To increase the awareness of oral care behaviour among children, oral care motivation plays a critical role in daily dental practices. Therefore, this cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the current oral hygiene status and evaluate the association between oral care motivation and oral hygiene index in 7–9-year-old children at Primary School in Hanoi, Vietnam. MethodsClinical examinations were performed on 200 randomly selected children to assess the Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S). Face-to-face interviews were applied to record students' intrinsic and extrinsic motivation for oral care through a questionnaire, which consisted of questions regarding demographic characteristics and oral care motivation. Data were analyzed using STATA 15.0 software and a p-value < 0.05 was statistically significant. ResultsThe mean OHI-S score was 2.48 ± 0.72. Good and fair oral hygiene were observed in 7.5 % and 66 % of participants, respectively. Students' motivation for dental care was predominantly extrinsic, with a mean score of 15.87 ± 1.322. Higher motivation in dental care is statistically significantly associated with oral hygiene index score (Coef=-0.27). ConclusionThese results indicate that students with intrinsic motivation exhibit better oral hygiene practices. Consequently, strengthening oral health educational programs in primary schools based on intrinsic motivation could be helped improve the oral hygiene status and oral care behaviours of children.

Assessment of parents’ oral health related behaviours and its relationship with oral health status of the children aged between 6-12 years in Davangere city: a cross-sectional survey

Background: It is widely acknowledged that the behaviour of parents affects their children's health. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between oral health behaviour of parents and oral health status of their children aged between 6-12 years. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 420 parent-child dyads with children aged between 6-12 years. A self-designed proforma was used for recording the sociodemographic details, with a questionnaire to assess parents’ oral health-related behaviours followed by clinical examination of the children for their oral health status. The Chi-square test, spearman’s correlation test and binary logistic regression analysis were applied by considering Statistical significance at p&lt;0.05. Results: The majority of the parents reported of having good oral health-related behaviours (60.2%). When children’s oral health status was assessed, more than half of the children had low caries experience (62.5%), showed a milder form of gingivitis (96.2%) and good oral hygiene status (57.4%). No statistically significant association was found between parents’ oral health-related behaviours with the children’s oral health status. Conclusions: Parents’ oral health-related behaviours did not influence the children’s oral health status.

Candidiasis and Oral Health

Candidiasis, primarily caused by Candida albicans, poses significant oral health concerns. This review highlights its clinical manifestations, diagnostics, and management strategies. Predisposing factors include poor oral hygiene and systemic conditions like HIV/AIDS and diabetes. Clinical presentation varies from asymptomatic colonization to symptomatic mucosal infections, with complications such as denture stomatitis. Diagnostics encompass clinical examination and various laboratory methods, guiding tailored treatment with topical or systemic antifungals. Prevention strategies targeting modifiable risk factors are crucial. Despite challenges like antifungal resistance, interdisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers is essential for the effective management of oral candidiasis and its impact on overall health. Keywords: Candidiasis; Candida albicans; Oral health; Diagnostics; Antifungals; Prevention strategies

The impact of stagnation on the microbial quality of constructed water systems after COVID-19 shutdowns.

In response to COVID-19 pandemic, governments all over the world limited the movement of people and mandated temporary closure of different institutions. While, these measures helped to reduce the spread of COVID-19, stagnant water can cause water quality deterioration. Stagnation is considered in context with the proliferation of pathogenic and facultatively pathogenic bacteria which pose potential health risks to humans. The objective of this study was to document the hygienic microbiological status of different water systems after the first shutdowns (between 18th March 2020 and 18th May 2020) in Hungary in comparison with a reference period (between 3rd January 2020 to 17th March). During the reference period drinking waters were compliant > 95% of total samples to the parametric values. After the short period shutdowns, the ratio of tnon-compliant drinking water samples was 6.6%: mainly Pseudomonas aeruginosa (7%) and coliform bacteria (5%) resulted poor water quality. The microscopic analysis of drinking waters showed that after low water demand the values of non-compliant samples also increased due to the proliferation of Amoebozoa and other Protozoa species. The compliant pool waters' ratio was also high in the reference period (97-99%), while after the shutdowns more samples were positive in both pool operation type (fill-and-drain pools and pools with recirculation) due to the proliferation of P. aeruginosa (14%) and micrococci (12%). Legionella non-compliant samples in hot tap water did not show significant difference during both studied periods (15%) although after stagnation the Legionella CFU (colony forming unit) values of the samples increased markedly.

“Tan's Dent-Card Qr Model Website Based” as an Effort to Improve Teeth Brushing Behavior and Dental Hygiene Status Primary School Children

Background: Children aged 10-12 years have a very high rate of tooth decay at 57.6% with a mean (DMF-T) of 4.8. This is caused by one of the influencing factors, namely the low level of behavior in maintaining dental hygiene, as evidenced by the results of the 2019 Semarang City health data, that 86.7% of elementary school children do not have good tooth brushing behavior. The achievement of the new joint tooth brushing program is 47.8%, so innovation is needed in changing tooth brushing behavior, namely through the "Tan's Dent-Card QR Website Based Model" which is expected to improve tooth brushing behavior and the dental hygiene status of elementary school children. Research purposes:Producing a "Website Based Tan's Dent-Card QR Model" that is effective and feasible to implement to improve tooth brushing behavior and the dental hygiene status of elementary school children. Method : The method used in this research is Research and Development (R&amp;D) with 5 research stages, namely needs identification, design and build, expert validation, feasibility test 1, and feasibility test 2. This research uses a pre-experimental design with a one- group pre-post- test. The sampling technique was purposive sampling consisting of 30 elementary school children aged 10-12 years who were given intervention for 14 days. Results: The validity results of the "Tan's Dent-Card QR Website-Based Model" show a value of p=0.000, which means this model is suitable for use to improve the behavior and dental hygiene status of elementary school children. “Tan's Dent-Card QR Website-Based Model” was also effective in enhancing tooth brushing behavior and dental hygiene status (p=0.000). In feasibility test 2, the result was p=0.000, which means the model is suitable for independent use by elementary school children aged 10-12 years. Conclusion: "Tan's Dent- Card QR Website-Based Model" is effective and ideal for use as an effort to improve tooth brushing behavior and the dental hygiene status of elementary school children.

Denta Go Model: An Effective Approach to Improving Tooth Brushing Skills and Dental Hygiene Status of Preschool Children

Background: According to Riskesdas, 63.7% of children aged 5 years have a dental caries experience number (def-t) ≥6 which is included in the category of severe early childhood caries. One of the factors that influence this is the low behavior in maintaining and maintaining oral hygiene. Therefore, through the innovation of the “Denta Go” Model, it is hoped that it can improve the tooth brushing skills and dental hygiene status of preschool children. Research Objective: To produce a “Denta Go” Model that is effective and feasible to implement in an effort to improve tooth brushing skills and dental hygiene status of preschool children. Methods: Research and Development (R&amp;D) method with 5 stages, namely identification of needs, design, expert validation, feasibility test 1, and feasibility test 2. This study used a pre-experiment design with a one group pre-post test design. The sampling technique was purposive sampling which was given an intervention for 21 days with 3 stages, namely introduction, repetition, and practice. Results: The validity results of the “Denta Go” Model show that the model is feasible as a dental health education model (p 0.000). The “Denta Go” model is effective in improving tooth brushing skills (p 0.000) with a mean pretest score of 59.06 and posttest 94.64. The “Denta Go” model is effective in improving dental hygiene status (p 0.000) with a mean pretest score of 2.64 and posttest of 1.16. Feasibility test 2 showed that the model is feasible to be used independently by kindergarten teachers (p 0.000). Conclusion: The “Denta Go” model is effective and feasible to use as an effort to improve tooth brushing skills and dental health status of preschool children.

Association between objective measures of oral health and salivary gland irradiation with patient-reported outcomes following head and neck radiation therapy.

To determine whether objective measures of oral health and salivary gland irradiation correlates with subjective measures of eating, drinking, and salivation in patients following head and neck radiation therapy (HNRT). This cross-sectional study included 112 patients following HNRT with a completed patient-reported outcome (PRO) scale. Objective measures at post-HNRT visit included decayed-missing-filled teeth (DMFT) scores, periodontal disease condition, oral hygiene status, dental prosthesis use, and prescribed radiation dose to salivary glands. Data were collected and statistical analysis was performed. There was no significant association between PRO scales and dental prosthesis use, periodontal disease, and oral hygiene. Although some significant findings were seen with DMFT and prescribed radiation dose to salivary glands, this explained only very small amounts of the variation in eating, drinking, and salivation measures in these patients. PRO measures should be integrated in the routine care of patients with head and neck cancer.

Snus Use in Adolescents: A Threat to Oral Health.

Background: Snus consumption is increasingly popular, mainly among the youth, due to the promotion of the tobacco industry and the lack of knowledge regarding its adverse effects. Even though some of its systemic complications are common knowledge, the oral consequences are rarely known. Aim: Therefore, the objective of this study is to evaluate the oral health effects of snus consumption among a highly exposed group of adolescent athletes. Design: Participants received an interactive presentation, followed by interviews and dental screenings by young doctors to establish trust. They were categorized into groups based on the frequency of snus usage. The oral hygiene habits and status, snus consumption habits, and awareness about its adverse effects were evaluated. Results: Statistically significantly (p < 0.05), more regular snus users experience gum bleeding while tooth brushing than nonusers (60% and 37%, p = 0.004). Snus consumption and poor oral hygiene have a cumulative effect on oral health. Some young athletes experience ulcerous oral mucosal lesions coinciding with snus placement. Nonusers exhibit greater awareness of the adverse effects of snus than regular users (27% and 49%). Conclusions: Regular snus use negatively affects oral health, especially the gums. Early education is of the utmost importance in preventing snus usage by raising awareness.