Hygiene Habits Research Articles

Dietary habit and lifestyle of postpartum women in South China: a mixed methods research

ObjectiveTo investigate the dietary and hygiene behaviours and influencing factors of women during the puerperium in South China.DesignA cross-sectional study.SettingThree tertiary hospitals in Guangdong Province, ChinaParticipantsFrom November 2022 to March...

The Impact of School-Based Caries Prevention Programs on DMFT Scores and Oral Health Behaviors in School Children

Oral health promotion is recognized as one of the fundamental components of health-promoting schools. However, few studies have demonstrated the efficacy of supportive school environments for school children’s Oral health. This systematic review evaluates the impact of school-based caries prevention programs on DMFT scores and Oral health behaviours in school children. Objective: To evaluate the impact of school-based caries prevention programs on DMFT Scores and Oral Health Behaviors in school children. Methods: Databases like PubMed, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, Springer, and Science Direct were searched from January 2009 to February 2024. Prisma guidelines were followed; 1, 950 studies were identified on the first search, titles, and abstracts of 500 papers were screened, 500 full-text papers were screened for eligibility, and 25 studies meeting the inclusion criteria were evaluated, relevant information was extracted, and a systematic review was conducted. Twenty-five studies were included in the systematic review. Results: These results indicate the significant role of SCPP among school-going children. Children with school-based caries prevention programs compared to those with no school-based caries prevention programs showed improved DMFT scores, reduced caries increment, healthy oral health behaviours, consistent Oral health hygienic habits, frequent use of flossing, fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinsing, and increased caries prevention knowledge. Conclusions: It was concluded that based on the pooled results, school-based caries prevention programs provide better, easily accessible, and sustainable caries prevention activities to school children to improve DMFT scores and Oral health behaviours.

Intervención Multicomponente de Enfermería para Promover el Hábito del Lavado de Manos en Escolares.

Diarrheal diseases and respiratory infections represent the main reasons for school absenteeism, which if complicated, will be part of the mortality statistics in children under five years of age. In this sense, it is important to focus on hand washing and multicomponent interventions with theoretical references for behavioral changes to promote sustained and long-term behavior, washing hands with soap and water has been shown to be a life-saving hygiene habit. The Nursing professional, through the Nursing Care Process (PAE), has the necessary skills to design, implement and evaluate multicomponent interventions. Objective: implement a PAE aimed at schoolchildren to promote the habit of handwashing, through a multicomponent intervention and the theory of disruptive behavior. Methodology: community case study with PAE, implemented in a public and rural primary school in Yucatán, Mexico. For the assessment, brainstorming techniques, non-participant observation and social cartography were used. For the diagnostic process, results and interventions, the NANDA 2021-2023 taxonomy, NOC Results Classification and NIC Intervention Classification was used. Results: we worked with a diagnosis, a result and three interventions on health education, community environmental management and behavior modification. Conclusions: through the PAE and the multicomponent intervention, it was possible for the school population to generate a more active and committed practice with handwashing.

Oral candidiasis and potential risk factors among disabled and non-disabled in Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia.

Oral candidiasis (OC) is an oral health disease that could influence patients' oral health quality of life. To estimate prevalence of OC among disabled and non-disabled individuals and its potential risk factors in the Al-Baha region, Saudi Arabia. An observational cross-sectional study was carried out among 148 disabled and non-disabled participants. The technique of concentrated oral rinse employing the Sabouraud Dextrose Agar medium accompanied with 0.05% chloramphenicol was conducted to assess and isolate candida. Oral examination using the World Health Organization guidelines was conducted to examine participants' oral health status. A pre-designed questionnaire was also used to evaluate sociodemographic, medical history, and oral hygiene habits of the studied population. Out of 148 participants (n = 57, 38%) had colonized candida. None of the studied population had visible Candida lesions. However, Candida was found in the oral rinses without the subject presenting any lesions or issues caused by Candida (asymptomatic colonization). The most common prevalent OC among participants were Candida albicans, Candida glabrata, Candida dubliniensis, Candida krusei, Candida tropicalis, and Candida parapsilosis (n = 35, 61%; n = 8, 14%; n = 6, 10%; n = 5, 9%; n = 2, 4%; and n = 1, 2%) respectively. Diabetes, smoking, poor plaque, and gingival status were key potential risk factors that significantly associated with candida's density and presence (P = 0.001, P = 0.001, P = 0.01, and P = 0.01) respectively. Disability status had no statistically significant effect on presence and density of Candida. The prevalence of OC is almost third of the studied population; thus, may provoke a need to develop preventive strategies to reduce the OC rate and establish solid treatment plans.

Patients and Healthcare Professionals’ Perceptions of Stethoscope Barriers

Stethoscope hygiene is rarely performed despite evidence that they are a potential source of nosocomial infections. Aseptic touch-free disposable stethoscope diaphragm barriers (touch-free barriers) provide a bacteriologically impervious surface; however, little is known about perceptions of touch-free barriers. The purpose of this study was to determine patients’ and healthcare professionals’ perceptions of stethoscope hygiene habits, cleanliness, and patient safety, after respondents viewed videos of stethoscope hygiene with alcohol versus a touch-free barrier, or no hygiene/no barrier. We conducted a cross-sectional study using survey methodology and convenience sampling. Participants viewed three short videos that showed a provider using each of three stethoscope hygiene techniques (barrier, alcohol, or none), followed by completion of a brief survey. Pearson’s chi-square, Fisher’s exact, Wilcoxon rank sum or Kruskal-Wallis tests were used as appropriate. Bonferroni correction was used to control error rate at 0.05 for each question. The sample size of 240 participants included 119 patients and 121 healthcare professionals. Patients rarely witnessed healthcare professionals cleaning stethoscopes, rated clean stethoscopes as important, and were more likely to choose touch-free barrier as easiest for providers. Healthcare professionals rated stethoscope hygiene as important, reported frequent stethoscope hygiene, and felt that touch-free barrier would improve workflow. Touch-free barriers were viewed positively by respondents. Hospitals should consider touch-free barriers as an important strategy to reduce nosocomial infections.

Consciouness and Practice of Personal Hygiene among the High School Students of a Rural Area in Chattogram

Backround: Good health is a sign of a country's economic well-being. Personal hygiene should be maintained first and foremost for high accuracy in work, low disease suffering and disease prevention. Maintaining good hygiene is crucial because it can prevent many infectious diseases. Personal hygiene habits may have developed during childhood. Children in school are especially prone to disregarding basic personal hygiene.This study was conducted to assess the consciousness and practice of personal hygiene among the students of a rural high school in Chattogram. Materials and methods: It was a descriptive type of cross-sectionalstudy and data were collected from 314 students of Guman Mardan Pashkarhut High School in Hathazari Upazila, Chattogram from August to October 2023 by interviewer administrative questionnaire. Results: Among the respondents, most of them 141(45%) were in the age group 11-12 years. About 207 (66%) were girls and 302(96%) were Muslims. Maximum 172 (54.8%) respondents were from class VII and class 8 and 36.5% were from lower middle class. About 241(77%) heard about the term personal hygiene and maximum students, 152(63.1%) heard it from school. Most of the students 241(77%) had idea on basic requirement of personal hygiene. It was found that maximum respondents 300 (96%) know about the importance of handwashing. Among all students, 73% brush twice daily, about 307(97.77%) take shower daily in summer and 302 (96%) practiced in winter, 293 (93.31%) used a towel of their own. During tiffin time, 211(67.20%) had taken home made food. Conclusion: As most of the children neglect maintenance of personal hygiene, so their habit should be changed. It should be practiced from early childhood to lead a healthy, disease-free productive life. IAHS Medical Journal Vol 6(2), December 2023; 24-30

Health And Menstrual Hygiene Of Adolescent Girls In Vijayapura District.

One-fifth of the world's population is in their adolescent years, and in India, 20.9% of people are in this age range. Adolescent girls were unable to obtain the proper knowledge due to social prohibitions and cultural beliefs, which resulted in poor hygiene habits. Due to these behavior's, microorganisms are harbored, which raises the risk of Genito-urinary diseases. To better understand the menstrual hygiene practices of teenage girls in the Vijayapura district, a study on the subject was undertaken. The study's goal was to investigate the menstrual hygiene habits of teenage females in Vijayapura. The study's secondary data-based paper's methodology. As a result of this study, teenage girls' health instruction must focus on menstrual hygiene and health for them to continue practicing good hygiene. With increased understanding and safe menstrual practices, reproductive system infections and their consequences can be prevented.

Investigating tooth morbidity risks, prevalence, and interventions in tribal setting: a study protocol focused on the Irula community in Tamil Nadu

AimDentistry is uniquely positioned as a healthcare profession, distinguished from allied health or paramedical fields. It operates within a university-based structure, maintaining primary care responsibilities. Oral diseases impose a substantial worldwide health and economic burden, profoundly affecting the well-being of those affected. This cross-sectional study is centered on the Irula tribes in Tamil Nadu, India. Investigating the extent of tooth morbidity and loss, identifying possible risk factors, looking at oral hygiene habits, and evaluating the oral health-associated quality of life (OHRQoL) in this population are the main goals. As this population is at high risk for dental issues, promoting good oral hygiene becomes crucial. Indigenous populations, including the Irula tribes, have been underrepresented in research studies. The vulnerability of the Irula tribes is exacerbated by their remote locations, resulting in limited access to fundamental healthcare facilities.Materials and methodsThis study employs a cluster sampling approach, aiming to include 880 individuals aged 60 and above from Kancheepuram and Chengalpattu districts. The methodology encompasses a community-based questionnaire, clinical assessments utilizing standardized indices, and the assessment of the Oral Health-Related Quality of Life (OHRQoL). The Statistical Package for Social Services, version 20, will be used to analyze all of the data that has been gathered (SPSS).Categorical variables will undergo analysis, with descriptive statistics and frequency percentages computed.ConclusionThis study evaluates tooth morbidity and dentistry's role in screening chronic diseases like diabetes among the Irula tribes. It explores risk factors, oral hygiene practices, treatment seeking behavior, and oral health-related quality of life to gain a comprehensive understanding.

Evaluation of the Effect of Socioeconomic Status on Oral Hygiene Habits

Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of socioeconomic status on oral hygiene habits. Materials and Methods: A questionnaire was conducted on 709 adult individuals (330 females, 379 males) who applied for routine examinations at Muğla Sıtkı Koçman University Faculty of Dentistry. Evaluation was performed on participants' sociodemographic characteristics, socioeconomic statuses, and oral hygiene habits. Questions directed at the participants encompassed oral hygiene habits, frequency of dental examination, gum health, prevalence of restorations and prostheses, as well as educational level, occupation, and monthly income. The 'Modified Kuppuswamy Socioeconomic Status Scale' was used for assessing participants' socioeconomic status. Data from the study were analyzed using the Pearson Chi-square test (p=0.05). Results: Statistically significant differences were observed when evaluating tooth brushing habits among socioeconomic groups (p

Early oral colonization of streptococcus mutans and lactobacilli species in infants: Investigating the relationship with maternal and environmental factors, from birth through the sixth month.

To assess the presence of Streptococcus Mutans (S.mutans) and Lactobacillus species (LB) of newborn-mother pairs using the real time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Subjects were selected from the patients followed in the Neonatology Clinic of Akdeniz University's Faculty of Medicine between the years 2017-2018. First samples collected within 48 hours after birth, and second samples were at six months. The samples were analyzed for the presence of S.mutans and LB using qRT-PCR. Mothers' smoking habits, education level, occupation, oral hygiene habits, DMFT scores and dietary history; Babies' delivery type, birth weight, feeding type, oral hygiene practices, feeding habits, bottle usage, pacifier usage, consumption of sugary foods, were also recorded. The effect of factors related to both mothers and infants was examined comparatively. S.mutans DNA was detectable in 87% and LB DNA was detected in 37% mothers, while it was undetected in 63% mothers at the first sampling. S.mutans was detected in 37% and, while LB was detected in 5% of the newborns in the first 48 hours of their life. At the second sampling, the S.mutans and LB levels in infants have increased, while there has been no significant change in mothers. A significant relationship was found only between the increase in S.mutans in infants and the presence of erupted teeth. S.mutans and LB were able to colonize on the oral mucosal surfaces of edentulous newborns, with the counts of both bacteria increasing significantly with tooth eruption.

Assessment of oral hygiene habits and periodontal status of patients during and after orthodontic treatment

OBJECTIVE: This study evaluated the relationship between orthodontic treatment, oral hygiene practices, and periodontal health in individuals undergoing or completed orthodontic treatment. MATERIALS AND METHOD: Systemically healthy patients undergoing or completed stable orthodontic treatment were included in the study. The periodontal status of 142 participants was determined using a comprehensive oral hygiene questionnaire and clinical oral examinations to assess various periodontal indices. Chi-square and t-tests were used for statistical analyses to compare periodontal status metrics between groups. RESULTS: Statistical analyses revealed no significant differences between oral hygiene habits, periodontal indices, or periodontal status between the ongoing treatment (OT) and post-orthodontic treatment (PT) groups (p>0.05). However, significant differences were noted in attachment level, dental visit frequency, and reasons for visits between the OT and PT groups (p<0.05). While participants generally showed similar oral hygiene awareness and practices, differences arose in toothbrushing times during orthodontic treatment and adherence to orthodontist recommendations. CONCLUSION: This study investigated the effect of OT on oral health and concluded that OT did not change oral hygiene habits but affected attachment levels. Orthodontists should consistently guide patients on oral hygiene and managing clinical attachment loss. In these cases, the patient should be referred to a periodontist when necessary.

"Ethnic disparities in the prevalence of Molar-Incisor-Hypomineralisation (MIH) and caries among 6-12-year-old children in Catalonia, Spain".

To study the prevalence of MIH and caries in 6- and 12-year-old schoolchildren and their association with ethnic disparities and other relevant factors. In recent years, there has been uneven improvement in school children's oral health, highlighting inequalities in access to dental care and health outcomes, particularly among ethnic minorities. The most prevalent oral disease in childhood, caries, is preventable, as its risk factors are well known. However, MIH, a common condition affecting the enamel of permanent incisors and/or molars, has no established aetiology or preventive measures. A cross-sectional study among schoolchildren was conducted in 725 children from Masnou (Barcelona, 2013) and in 577 children from Sant Andreu de Llavaneres (Barcelona, 2018-2020). Data collection was carried out by means of clinical examination and a selfreferenced questionnaire. Oral health outcomes included: presence of dental caries, presence of MIH, hypomineralised second primary molars (HSPM). All variables were analysed according to ethnic disparities and other variables such as socioeconomics, diet, hygiene habits, plaque and access to dental services. We performed multivariate Poisson regression models with robust variance to examine ethnic disparities in MIH and caries. This cross-sectional study based in Catalonia, Spain showed that there are ethnic disparities in caries as observed with other child's diseases; however, they do not seem to follow the same pattern for MIH. More studies are needed (i) to explore how MIH behaves among populations in terms of inequality; (ii) to study the aetiological factors of MIH; and (iii) to identify potential factors associated with MIH and caries that have not been studied and that may contribute to the observed ethnic disparities.

Review of Menstrual Hygiene Management Practices Among Adolescent Girls: Challenges, Health Implications, and Future Directions

Although a woman's menstruation is a normal biological process that is essential to her reproductive life, managing menstrual hygiene is still a major worldwide issue, especially for teenage girls in low- and middle-income nations. Maintaining dignity and one's physical and mental health depend on practicing proper menstrual hygiene. However, barriers to good menstrual hygiene habits persist due to cultural taboos, a lack of resources, and inadequate knowledge. Examining national and international policies targeted at resolving these concerns, this analysis examines the relationship between menstrual hygiene, adolescent health, and the right to health. The conversation emphasizes how important it is to manage menstrual hygiene in an appropriate way to prevent a girl's period from interfering with her everyday activities or undermining her self-esteem. A variety of menstruation items are assessed, with a focus on choosing the right goods to preserve hygiene, including sanitary pads, tampons, menstrual cups, and period underwear. The review also touches on the effects of menstruation problems on women's lives. The support that national and international initiatives like the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP), Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK), and the Scheme for Promotion of Menstrual Hygiene provide for the management of menstrual hygiene and adolescent health are examined. In order to guarantee that teenage girls may have healthy, productive lives with dignity and respect, the article emphasizes the need for ongoing efforts to enhance menstrual hygiene management via education, access to sanitary products, and the breakdown of societal taboos.

Evaluation of the quality of oral hygiene mobile apps for children using the mobile app rating scale

BackgroundWith the increased use of smartphones, mobile applications (apps) aimed at promoting healthy behaviors have experienced exponential growth. ObjectivesThis study aimed to provide an overview of mobile apps that use gamification to motivate children to maintain optimal oral hygiene and to evaluate the quality of the oral hygiene apps for children (OHACs) available in the Turkish Google Play Store and the Apple Store. MethodsBetween January 20 and February 2, 2024, OHACs were searched in the Turkish Google Play Store and the Apple Store. Seven apps were assessed using the Mobile Application Rating Scale (MARS) and evidence-based dentistry criteria (EBD). We used Microsoft Office Professional 2016 (Microsoft Excel 2016; Microsoft Corp, Redmond, WA, USA) and IBM SPSS Statistics version 29 for Windows (IBM Corp, Armonk, NY, USA) for all the data analyses and visualizations. ResultsThe best overall MARS scores were obtained for Diş Doktoru: Dentist (3.53 ± 0.15) and Diş Hekimi Oyunları: Dentist Game (3.72 ± 0.33). The worst overall MARS scores were obtained for Truthbrush (2.76 ± 0.06) and Mimizaur (2.85 ± 0.09). Hayvan Diş Hekimi: Animal Dentist, Diş Hekimi Oyunları, and the Brush Teeth Game: Kids Dentist included the most evidence-based content. ConclusionMost OHACs achieved moderate MARS scores for promoting oral hygiene habits among children. Improving the quality and educational content of OHACs could increase personal oral care motivation in children. More research is required to determine the long-term effects of the apps and whether they align with oral hygiene guidance.

Intestinal Protozoa and Schistosoma Mansoni (Sambon 1907) Infections Among Some Pupils in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria

The prevalence of intestinal protozoa and Schistosoma mansoni infections among primary school pupils in Akko Local Government Area of Gombe State, Nigeria was investigated. Stool samples were collected from 450 pupils aged 5–13 years in the three (3) districts of Akko Local Government Area. A structured questionnaire was used to collect relevant demographic and risk factor data associated with intestinal protozoa and S. mansoni infections. The stool samples were processed using the formol-ether concentration technique and microscopically examined for protozoan cysts and S. mansoni eggs; 12.4 % of the stool samples were positive for cysts and eggs. The prevalence of intestinal protozoa were: Entamoeba histolytica (4.9 %), Entamoeba coli (3.8 %) and Balantidium coli (2 %); Schistosoma mansoni eggs had a prevalence of 1.6 %. The prevalence of infection with protozoa and S. mansoni infections in individual schools was not uniform despite the similarity in the local topography and weather conditions. Source of drinking water and type of toilet used significantly associated with infection by intestinal protozoa and S. mansoni (Odd’s Ratio value for Pit-latrine was 18.959). The prevalence of intestinal protozoa and Schistosoma mansoni infections among the primary school pupils was associated with poor personal hygiene habits at home and in school, and improper disposal of human and animal waste as implied by the responses to the questionnaire. It is therefore recommended that a concerted health education effort is necessary in order to curb the infections within the schools and the communities.

Changing smiles and minds-a community-based trial on parental knowledge impact on early childhood caries.

This study was carried out in New York City over a period of twelve months for each child. 1207 children from 977 families, with clinically diagnosed ECC, were recruited. Inclusion criteria included children that had at least one filled or decayed primary tooth surface and were aged between 2 years to 6 years. Exclusion criteria included children that may have conditions that would have prevented the provision of oral hygiene habits or moderation of diet, for example children with severe autism. Families were recruited from local specialist residency programmes within the city or by direct referral from local CHWs. Evaluation of the parental education was established through use of electronic surveys at baseline level and follow up following CHWs' intervention. The data was collected between 2015 and 2017 and required follow up appointments that were completed via telephone and other remote methods. Data collection separated caries risk factors into six domains with 26 factions across the pre- and post-intervention period. These addressed both parental knowledge of the aetiology of caries and factors that can contribute to this. Domains included titles such as saliva factors, hygiene, diet, severity/susceptibility, and outcome expectations. Parents were asked to note their agreement with the statements using a four-point scale (Strongly Agree, Agree, Disagree and Strongly Disagree). The survey was made up of statements including themes of caries risk factors, and behavioural science that can contribute to caries development. Examples include 'drinking juice can cause tooth decay' and 'all kids get tooth decay'. Correct answers would be given as part of the targeted advice and education given by the CHWs at subsequent visits. Data was collected from a total of 669 parents of 977 taking part in the study. Analysis focussed on the trend of changing knowledge of parents from baseline to follow up. The analysis also assessed features of the participants including the parents' first language, education level, country of birth, average age of the children and their insurance status - this was then assessed to see if this influenced the parents' beliefs and associations. Results found there was an improvement in the parental knowledge of salivary risks for caries, hygiene input and dietary effect post intervention. The only differing result was the statement that 'tooth decay is very common' - this showed a reduced change. The study concluded that the MySmileBuddy programme did improve parental education on Early Childhood Caries and factors influencing the risk of this, though acknowledges that there should be further exploration in the clinical impact that this education would have on the patients' caries status from the CHW input.

Knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene: a cross-sectional study among high school girls in Mangalore Taluk

Background: Understanding and practicing menstrual hygiene is crucial for women’s health globally. Unsafe menstrual hygiene practices (MHP) contribute to a lower quality of life. In impoverished nations, gender inequity, societal norms, cultural taboos, poverty, and inadequate facilities hinder meeting menstrual health demands. The study aimed to assess the level of knowledge and practice of menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls in Mangalore Taluk, Dakshina Kannada, Karnataka. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 482 adolescent girls from government high schools in Mangalore Taluk. A cluster random sampling technique was adopted to select the schools and complete enumeration was done from each school with the aid of a semi-structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed by using SPSS v-23. Descriptive analysis showed frequency and percentage, and logistic regression explored associations between menstrual hygiene practices (MHP) and demographic variables. Results: Out of 482 participants, 82.3% got primary menses information, mostly from mothers (77.8%). About 48.5% had average menstruation knowledge, and 76.8% followed proper MHP. Urban areas showed 4.368 times higher MHP practice than rural areas, revealing a significant relationship. Conclusions: Study finds Mangalore high school girls generally maintain average menstrual hygiene practices. It is very important to set up suitable disposal facilities in schools and to organise awareness campaigns on good menstrual hygiene habits. Thus, it contributes to improving quality of life.

Evaluation of Dental Anxiety Levels on Oral and Dental Health Quality of Life in Patients with Hashimoto Thyroiditis

Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of anxiety level, dental fear, anxiety on oral health quality of life oral, and dental health in Hashimoto's thyroiditis patients. Materials and Methods: Ninety adult individuals were included from Gaziantep University Faculty of Dentistry. All participants were asked about demographic parameters (age, gender), socio-economic status (education, marital status), and oral hygiene habits. The OHIP-14 and OHRQoL-UK questionnaires were used to asses the effect of individuals' oral health on their quality of life. Dental anxiety levels were evaluation with the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS). Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics 22.0. Result: There were no significant differences for Sociodemographic data, dental habits, age, marital status, educational status, smoking, frequency of brushing tooth, frequency of visiting the dental clinic in OHIP-14, OHRQoL, and MDAS survey scores (p > 0.005). However, there was a statistically moderate positive correlation between the total OHIP-14 scores and the MDAS scores (r = 0.309; p < 0.003). Additionally, a moderate negative correlation was showed between the total OHRQoL and the MDAS scale (r = 0.307; p < 0.003). Conclusion: In conclusion, this study showed that patients' quality of life regarding oral and dental health was low, regardless of individual factors. It was found that dental anxiety was lower in patients with HT, and a significant correlation betwen the quality of life and anxiety level was observed.

Assessing oral health knowledge among public school children in Saudi Arabian subpopulation

IntroductionOral hygiene is paramount for maintaining optimal oral and physical health, especially among children who are particularly susceptible to dental caries and issues due to dietary habits and inadequate hygiene practices. This study aimed to evaluate the awareness and knowledge of oral health among public school children, analyse their oral hygiene habits, educate parents on the importance of oral health for their children, and implement an oral hygiene educational program in Al-Kharj City, Saudi Arabia.MethodsFour public elementary schools were selected for the study, with a sample size of 200 school-going children participating. A structured questionnaire was used to assess awareness and knowledge of oral health among the participants. SPSS software version 26 was used for data analysis. Multiple regression analysis and correlation tests was employed to explore the relationships between the different variables measured in the study.ResultsThe findings revealed a significant lack of awareness regarding oral health among school children. Oral hygiene habits were found to be inadequate in many participants. Overall, the findings highlight the need for targeted interventions aimed at promoting regular dental visits, addressing dental fear, and fostering positive oral hygiene practices among school-going children to improve oral health outcomes in the studied population.ConclusionThe study highlighted a critical gap in oral health awareness among school children, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. While the oral hygiene educational program has been implemented and future data will shed light on its effectiveness, preliminary observations suggest that such programs could potentially improve oral health outcomes and overall engagement among students.

Cross-cultural adaptation and psychometric properties of the Malay version of parenting and child tooth brushing assessment (M-PACTA)

BackgroundMalaysian preschool children continue to exhibit a high prevalence of dental caries and poor oral hygiene. There is a need to gain an in-depth understanding of oral hygiene habits and design suitable interventions to improve oral hygiene in early childhood.ObjectiveTo cross-culturally adapt and determine the psychometric properties of the Malay-translated Parenting and Child Tooth Brushing Assessment questionnaire (M-PACTA).MethodologyThis cross-sectional study involved face and content validation, and forward and back-translation of PACTA. The M-PACTA was then tested for reliability and construct validity on 150 Malaysian parents of children aged 5 to 6 years old.ResultsFace validity indicated that the M-PACTA items were clear and easy to understand. For content validity, some words had to be modified in accordance with the recommendations of the expert committees to make it more coherent to Malaysians. Some statements in the parental knowledge scales were modified according to the guidelines applicable in Malaysia. The content comparison of the back translation with the adapted PACTA revealed that all items were semantic and linguistically equivalent. Exploratory factor analyses of M-PACTA suggested a two-factor structure for three scales including child behaviour scale (‘non-compliance’ and ‘avoidance behaviour’), parental attitudes (‘lack of concern’ and ‘attitude of care’), and parental knowledge (‘general tooth brushing knowledge’ and ‘awareness of tooth brushing care’) while for the parental strategy scale, three-factor structure was extracted including ‘routine positive methods’, ‘uncommon positive methods’, and ‘negative methods’. Internal consistencies for all scales were good (α > 0.9).ConclusionM-PACTA did not replicate the construct of the original PACTA. Nonetheless, M-PACTA demonstrated good construct validity, internal consistency reliability, and test-retest reliability within Malaysian context.