Socioeconomic Communities Research Articles

Sustainable Management by Forest Farmer Group in Serayu Watershed

The conservation and development management of watersheds require comprehensive studies, planning, and implementation from the upstream water sources to the downstream areas. The active involvement of stakeholders, including government entities responsible for policies, regulations, and budgets, as well as civil society groups such as forest farmer communities, fishermen, business groups, environmental activists, and empowerment advocates, is essential. This research focuses on watershed management among forest farmer groups in the Serayu River area, the longest river in Central Java, specifically in Cilacap and Banyumas Regencies of Indonesia A qualitative explanatory case study method was employed, utilizing direct observation, in-depth interviews, document analysis, and discussions. Data were analyzed through reduction, classification, clarification, and triangulation. The findings reveal that the management of the Serayu River watershed still requires socialization, coordination, and collaboration among stakeholders in planning, conservation, maintenance, development, monitoring, and evaluation. These stakeholders include local and village governments, socio-economic community groups, private entities, and academics. Relevant watershed management approaches include conceptual, deterministic, stochastic, parametric, and probabilistic methods.

Implementing a fishery improvement programme to manage the common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis) in artisanal sea and lagoon fisheries: The case study of the Chioggia’s fleet

In the light of reducing the impact of fishery, artisanal fisheries hold great potential to achieve the sustainable use of marine resources if locally managed at sub-regional level (i.e., within the same province or fleet) and by implementing mitigation systems. The Chioggia small-scale fishing fleet represents a study case in an overexploited Mediterranean sub-region, operating both in the Venice Lagoon and the North Adriatic Sea. During the spawning period, this small-scale fishery targets the same target species, the common cuttlefish (Sepia officinalis), which, over the past thirty years, has shown a general decline in catch trends. Cuttlefish represent a high-value resource at all life stages, with both adults and juveniles considered targets of the artisanal fishery. Additionally, eggs are consistently laid on fishing gear during the breeding season and must be removed by fishers to prevent a reduction in fishing efficiency. These aspects contribute to the vulnerability of the common cuttlefish stocks, calling for a complementary management approach. We researched methods from the peer-reviewed literature, and adapted methods to reflect the environmental conditions of the sea and lagoon, and small-scale fishing methods. We combined into a complementary management approach: i) mitigation systems to reduce and collect eggs discarded during fishing operations, ii) semi-natural juvenile rearing diets to potentially release fishing pressure and support natural population, and iii) small-scale supply chain to both raise awareness about this resource vulnerability and promote the activity of fishers adopting virtuous behaviours. We tested these three functional management units in collaboration with lagoon and sea fishers and local stakeholders. We showed that the use of egg collectors, as an alternative spawning structure, performed well to limit the loss of the eggs laid upon the fishing gears. Second, we showed that Mixed and Natural diets contributed significantly to the growth rate of hatchlings compared to artificial diets. Finally, we demonstrated a shared interest in products derived from sustainable fisheries from the public, fishers and retailers. Therefore, the small-scale supply chain can represent a valid component to valorise the adoption of the whole management scheme. Overall, this complementary management approach can be adapted to and implemented in other local socio-economic communities of artisanal fishing in coastal environments worldwide. Complementary mitigation systems could work in synergy, overcoming the limitations of individual mitigation measures applied to diverse fishery resources.

Coastal Area Management and Environmental Law Enforcement Against Marine Debris Polling

In the implementation of coastal and marine resource management, it is essentially aimed at empowering the socio-economic community, so the community should have great power to regulate itself in managing coastal and marine resources in this era of autonomy. The process of transferring authority from the government to the community must be realized. Law enforcement against coastal areas is very complex, as intended by Law Number 32 of 2009, namely through several instruments, namely administration, civil and criminal, but first the community must understand the legal awareness itself. In an effort to foster legal awareness, repressive, preventive and persuasive actions can be taken.

Understanding access to sexual and reproductive health in general practice using an adapted Candidacy Framework; a systematic review and qualitative evidence synthesis.

Background General practice has a key role in reducing inequity in access to sexual and reproductive health (SRH). Unplanned pregnancy, abortion and STIs are increasing and disproportionately affects deprived communities and ethnic minority groups. The candidacy framework offers a practical, theoretical framework for understanding the complex interactional processes of access to SRH in general practice. Aim To use the candidacy framework to explore access of SRH in general practice. The seven interaction stages include, identification of need, navigation of services, permeability of services, appearing and asserting need, adjudication by healthcare professional, offers or resistance of offer and the local operating conditions or local production of candidacy. Design and setting This study involved a systematic review with qualitative evidence synthesis using a framework approach. Methods A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, PUBMED, and the Web of Science was conducted to identify primary qualitative research studies exploring access to SRH in general practice from practitioner, public, and patient perspectives in countries with universal healthcare. The candidacy framework was used to synthesise the findings. Results Analysis of 42 studies revealed the impact of stigma, shame, and embarrassment among individuals, communities, and healthcare practitioners. Findings showed limited inclusion of demographics such as ethnicity and socio-economic status. Barriers to access were more evident for those from lower socio-economic communities, ethnic minorities and LGBTQ+. There are multiple barriers, which include the behaviours of healthcare professionals who have a crucial role in recognising an individual's SRH need. Conclusions General practice offers a cradle-to-grave healthcare service, which should have SRH as a priority area of provision. Further understanding is needed of the impact of historic harms by medicine and healthcare on racialised individuals and gender minorities.

Exploring Transportation Challenges and Opportunities for Mobility-Vulnerable Populations Through the Social-Ecological Model.

Community mobility is a vital activity of daily living. Mobility-vulnerable populations-individuals with incomes below the federal poverty threshold, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and older adults-face transit disparities. Advanced technologies (e.g., ride-sharing) may mitigate transportation inequities, but limited evidence considers mobility-vulnerable populations. Utilizing the social-ecological model, the team examined challenges and opportunities associated with transportation availability, accessibility, affordability, acceptability, and adaptability among two socioeconomic communities. Four focus groups were conducted using community-based participatory research principles. Community advisory boards informed focus group development and implementation. A thematic analysis was performed using the social-ecological model. Participants (N = 23) experienced transportation challenges and opportunities at all levels of the social-ecological model-individual (e.g., bus availability), relationship (e.g., peer support), community (e.g., safety), and societal (e.g., social isolation). Findings indicate the importance of looking beyond individual factors and exploring relationships, community, and societal impacts on transportation use.

Impact of Climate Change on Cardiovascular Health.

Climate change is profoundly impacting cardiovascular disease through rising temperatures, more extreme weather events, and worsening air pollution. This review analyzes how these factors affect cardiovascular health. Extreme heat and cold cause physiological changes, including increasing the risk of blood clots, faster heart rates, and inflammation. Air pollution and wildfire smoke lead to oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, leading to heightened cardiovascular risk. Extreme weather disrupts healthcare access, complicating chronic condition management and negatively impacts people from lower socioeconomic communities. Climate-related stressors also affect mental health, which in turn impacts cardiovascular health. Long-term changes, such as food insecurity and migration, further strain heart health due to poor diets and psychological stress. Cardiologists must understand these risks to better support and treat patients in our changing climate.

Understanding the Role of Social Determinants in Shaping Chronic Disease Outcomes: A Comprehensive Review

This review explores the influence of social determinants of health (SDH) on chronic disease outcomes, focusing on the interconnected roles of socioeconomic status, physical environment, community context, education, healthcare access, and behavioral determinants. Chronic diseases—such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and respiratory conditions—pose a significant public health challenge, with social determinants increasingly recognized as critical factors in shaping their prevalence, progression, and management. This review synthesizes findings from recent studies to elucidate how SDH create disparities in chronic disease outcomes, particularly among marginalized populations. We examine mechanisms linking SDH to chronic disease, including biopsychosocial and behavioral pathways, and discuss implications for public health interventions and policy-making. Addressing these social determinants through comprehensive public health strategies could help reduce the burden of chronic diseases, improve health equity, and support healthier communities.

Dog Acquisition in Lower-Income Communities as Consumer Behavior: An Exploratory Qualitative Study

Introduction: This qualitative research article examines the nature of the decision-making processes used by people to acquire dogs in low-income communities compared to how people in middle and upper socioeconomic communities make this decision. Methods: We explored the preferences, thoughts, and concerns that influenced decisions of a convenience sample of 40 respondents who acquired dogs or puppies within the last 2 years. Sixty-five percent of respondents (N = 26) described living in or near poverty, while 35% held middle or upper socioeconomic status. To elicit detailed accounts of their decision-making process, a semi-structured interview was administered. Results were subjected to qualitative data analysis to identify different features of the acquisition process and to compare these features by respondents’ socioeconomic status. Results: Most respondents described similar ‘stages’ in dog acquisition as consumers making other high-involvement purchases: recognizing need (mulling), information-gathering and evaluating (creating criteria sets, sourcing pragmatically, and encountering decision triggers), and adjusting to new dogs post-acquisition. Aspects of acquisition were extended or attenuated, and more complex than predicted by models built for inanimate products. Social class influenced some but not all stages of dog acquisition. Conclusion: Findings from this analysis support advertising and wide dissemination of adoptable dog information. A community engaged model of sheltering including non-judgmental adoptions, community veterinary and behavioral pet support, and building trust could increase local dog adoption.

Receptiveness of the Kindytxt Universal Early Literacy Texting Program by Parents from Low, Medium, and High Socioeconomic Communities

Receptiveness of the Kindytxt Universal Early Literacy Texting Program by Parents from Low, Medium, and High Socioeconomic Communities

Exploring uptake and adherence to ‘healthy eating’ interventions in low socio-economic communities via a thematic narrative synthesis

Low socioeconomic status (SES) is associated with an increased risk of overweight and obesity, consequently elevating the likelihood of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease and type II diabetes(1). Although dietary interventions offer a promising solution to address this issue, engaging low-SES groups is challenging; uptake and adherence tends to be suboptimal(2,3). The aim of this review was to understand current levels of uptake and adherence and to identify the drivers of optimal uptake and adherence in community-based dietary interventions for populations with low socioeconomic status.A systematic review of studies published prior to December 12, 2022, identified 114 relevant records. Full text screening, data extraction and coding was conducted by two independent reviewers. A thematic analysis and narrative synthesis was carried out to explore factors associated with uptake and adherence, alongside a basic descriptive analysis of current uptake and adherence rates.Of the 114 included records, 88 reported uptake and 110 reported adherence. On average, uptake stood at 80%, indicating a 20% shortfall and potential compromise to validity. Adherence averaged 72%, with only 36 records meeting the recommended threshold of 80%(4). Thematic analysis revealed barriers and facilitators to engagement. Participants faced various challenges hindering engagement, including logistical obstacles such as transportation issues and scheduling conflicts, alongside socioeconomic constraints like low income and competing life stressors. Lack of personal motivation and family resistance further impeded participation, reflecting the influence of social norms. Environmental barriers, including the availability of fast food and program fidelity challenges, also contributed to lower program uptake. Social support and community engagement played a pivotal role in enhancing intervention participation, fostering supportive networks and shared knowledge among participants. Practical support and accessibility measures, such as logistical assistance and intervention adaptability, facilitated retention by reducing barriers to engagement. Tailored interventions, incorporating cultural competence and personalized approaches, effectively addressed participants’ specific needs and preferences. Additionally, motivational strategies, including goal setting and positive reinforcement, encouraged sustained engagement by boosting participants’ self-efficacy and commitment to healthy behaviours.The observed uptake and adherence rates highlight the persistent challenge of participant engagement and retention in dietary interventions among low-income populations. Interventions addressing logistical, socioeconomic, and motivational barriers, along with tailored and culturally competent interventions, are key for improving engagement and retention in future interventions, thereby enhancing their effectiveness in combating diet-related health disparities.

Local Government Policy of Oil and Natural Gas Governance: A Case Study of Indonesia

This study aims to determine the policies used by the Bojonegoro Government in managing oil and gas in economic resilience and the impact on the development of oil and gas mining in the socio-economic community in Mojodelik Village, Gayam District, Bojonegoro Regency. By using qualitative descriptive methods and using data collection techniques in the form of observation, interviews, and documentation. The results of this study indicate that the realization of economic resilience during the period of Regent Suyoto was achieved through the issuance of Regional Regulation Number 23 of 2011. Furthermore, the negative impacts caused by oil and gas management policies are greater than the positive impacts because the entire community feels more negative impacts such as socio-economic and environmental stability are disrupted, such as reduced community income, the location of agricultural land with houses is getting further away, reduced water absorption, reduced interaction between farmers and farm laborers, and the emergence of envy between farmers affected by land acquisition. And the positive impacts are able to help facilitate travel including speeding up travel distances and shortening travel time between regions considering that roads without obstacles speed up travel time.

Gastrointestinal and respiratory morbidity when introducing eggs as complementary food: a randomised controlled trial in South African infants

We investigated the incidence and duration of morbidity symptoms among infants aged 6 to 9 months from a low socioeconomic community receiving one egg daily for 6 months. This was a secondary outcome of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) of 500 infants conducted in Jouberton, South Africa. The primary outcome was linear growth. Morbidity data were collected weekly using a symptoms diary and qualitative data with focus group discussions at the endpoint. Ethical approval was obtained from the North-West University Health Research Ethics Committee. The intervention group had a ~ 5% higher incidence of gastrointestinal morbidity (17.0%) compared to the control group (11.9%). Gastrointestinal morbidity without fever tended to be 1.4 times higher in the intervention group (OR: 1.43, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.93; P = 0.058) and tended to be 4 times higher with fever (OR: 4.07, 95% CI: 0.86, 19.23; P = 0.077). The duration of total gastrointestinal and respiratory morbidity was 1.5 days longer in the intervention group (β: 1.491; 95% CI 0.064, 2.918; P = 0.041). Complementary feeding with eggs may have contributed towards an increased risk for gastrointestinal morbidity.

Community-Based Tourism Implementation as Mediator on the Relationship between Community Participation and Socio-Economic Sustainability of Tourism

This study explored the mediating effect of community-based tourism implementation on the relationship between community participation and the socio-economic sustainability of tourism in Marilog District. This study employed a quantitative method and stratified random sampling to select the 380 respondents. The survey was distributed to two areas in Marilog District: Barangay Baganihan and Barangay Datu Salumay. The data was evaluated to ascertain whether the variables had a statistical relationship. This study used non-experimental quantitative research, the descriptive-correlation approach, and mediation analysis. The weighted mean, Pearson product-moment correlation coefficient, multiple regression analysis, and path analysis were used to analyze the data. The result revealed that the respondents have high levels of community participation, socio-economic sustainability, and community-based tourism implementation. The relationship between community participation and socio-economic sustainability, community participation and community-based tourism implementation, and socio-economic sustainability and community-based tourism implementation were statistically significant. However, the indirect effect of community participation in socio-economic sustainability through community-based tourism implementation is insignificant and statistically supported by this study, indicating no significant mediation. The study findings’ implications are presented.

Narrative review: Managing buprenorphine and opioid use disorder in the perioperative setting.

The opioid epidemic continues to have a staggering impact on millions of individuals and families across all socioeconomic levels and communities. Recent studies suggest high numbers of patients presenting for surgery with reported opioid misuse and/or opioid use disorder (OUD). Anesthesiologists often lack basic education to treat patients suffering with OUD or patients in recovery from this treatable disease. This manuscript will provide a review of the American Society of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine Multisociety Working Group Practice Advisory recommendations on existing OUD treatment barriers and perioperative management best practices; it will also demonstrate the benefits that greater involvement of the anesthesiologist can have in managing patients with OUD perioperatively.

The Association Between Overweight Obesity Status and Hypertension in a Rural Community in Dang District, Gujarat, India: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Background The relationship betweenoverweight obesity status and hypertension is well-known throughout the world, especially in low socioeconomic communities and developing countries. Both high blood pressure and obesity are preventable risk factors for noncommunicable disease, death, and disability. The prevalence of obesity-overweight status in India is increasing faster than the global average, and diabetes in Southeast Asia has surged over the past few decades. There have been few systematic studies focusing onpublic health development in rural communities of India, like the Dang District.This study explores the association between overweight-obesity status and hypertension prevalence in a rural community in Dang district, Gujarat, India. Methods A cross-sectional design was utilized for this study, involving 1012 adult patient charts collected from medical camps in December 2018 and 2019. Patients with incomplete information for measurements of blood pressure, height, weight, age, and sex were omitted from the analysis (n=953).Data on BMI and blood pressure were analyzed to examine the relationship between overweight-obesity status and hypertension. Hypertension was defined by the American Heart Association (AHA) cut-offs for measured blood pressure. Both World Health Organization (WHO) and South Asian cut-offs were used for BMI. Binary logistic regression was used to assess the association between hypertension and overweight-obesity status, adjusted for age and sex. Results Most patients were hypertensive, with males having a higher prevalence (63.3%) than females (55.1%). The prevalence of hypertension among participants increased with age. This was true for both sexes, except for males 45-54 years of age. The average BMI for both sexes was 22.4.Results indicated that overweight and obese individuals had a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension compared to their normal-weight counterparts, suggesting a strong association between the two conditions. A binary logistic regression found that males were 1.35 times more likely to have hypertension than females (95% CI 1.03 - 1.79), and increasing age and BMI were associated with an increased likelihood of hypertension. Conclusion The association between hypertension and BMI is positive and is stronger when using South Asian cut-offs. Using these cut-offs will include a wider range of people at risk for hypertension. With males and older adults especially at risk, targeting public health awareness campaigns to reduce BMI and help lower the burden of hypertension can improve the health and quality of life in this community.

‘Your story matters’: the affective and relational work of teachers in sites of poverty and trauma

AbstractWhile teachers work is increasingly constrained by a focus on quantifiable measures and accountability, the persistent underachievement of students from disadvantaged backgrounds is an ongoing and unsolved problem. There is increasing expectation for schools to take responsibility for the social-emotional as well as intellectual capabilities of students. However there has been little exploration into the complexities of teaching in low socio-economic and vulnerable communities. In this paper, I explore the experiences, thoughts and perceptions of teachers who work with complex student cohorts in disadvantaged settings. My interest extends to the affective and relational dimensions of their work. Drawing from two research projects conducted in areas marked by poverty, the paper utilises segments of interviews to illustrate the deeply embodied and sensory and aspects of teachers’ relational practice. In presenting their perspectives and experiences I tell the story of their complex work as well as what ‘comes to matter’ in schools and classrooms where trauma and adversity are ever-present.

Implementation of the Infrastructure Policy in the Construction of the Bridge Connecting Gampong Blang Mirou--Kumba Kec. Bandar Dua, Pidie Jaya Regency

Due to the lack of connecting facilities, residents in the Gampong Blang Mirou and Kumba Kec. Bandar Dua have to travel via another route. Although proposals to the district government are submitted every year, a response was received in 2018. In 2018, the construction of the Blang Mirou–Kumba steel truss bridge was carried out using the DAK budget, the tender process for this development package used a budget of 14 billion Rupiah. The purpose of this research is to determine and analyze the increase in social interaction and economic growth as a result of the construction of the bridge connecting Gampong Blang Mirou - Kumba District. Bandar Dua Kab. Pidie Jaya. The method used is descriptive qualitative. The data sources used are primary data and secondary data. The research uses data obtained through interviews, observation, and documentation. Based on the results of the research and findings in the field, the conclusion is that the implementation of this policy can provide practical implications for the people of Pidie Jaya Regency, especially the people of Gampong Blang Mirou and Gampong Kumba as well as the Pidie Jaya Regency Government so that social interaction between the regions and the regional economy both increases. An interesting finding was that when the road was widened to build a connecting bridge, the community gave their land for free without having to be compensated by the government. Keywords: policies, infrastructure, bridges, socio-economic community

" Operationalizing Jitegemea Philosophy As A Model To Sustainable Development To Retirement Plan Among The Pulpit Workers

Purpose of the Study: This study aimed to investigate the operationalization of Jitegemea Philosophy as a model for the sustainable development of retirement plans among pulpit workers. Statement of the Problem Despite the importance of retirement planning, these workers face challenges such as low salaries, irregular income, and limited access to pension schemes, leading to financial insecurity in later life. The Jitegemea (self-reliance) philosophy, rooted in principles of self-sufficiency and sustainability, offers a potential model for addressing this gap. However, there is limited research and practical application of Jitegemea as a structured retirement planning model tailored to the specific needs of pulpit workers. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensuring the financial security and well-being of PCEA pulpit workers in retirement. Therefore, this study explores how operationalizing the Jitegemea philosophy could provide a sustainable solution for enhancing financial security and well-being for clergy during retirement. Methodology: This study employed a qualitative research approach, utilizing semi-structured interviews with PCEA pulpit workers to explore their perceptions, experiences, and challenges related to retirement planning. A purposive sampling technique was used to select participants from various PCEA churches in Nairobi. Data were analyzed thematically to identify key themes and patterns related to retirement planning among PCEA pulpit workers. Key Findings: The study revealed that while many clergy face socio-economic barriers, religious beliefs, community support, and proactive planning can foster resilience. Participants expressed mixed emotions about retirement, some feeling apprehensive and others viewing it as a period of spiritual renewal. The study highlights the need for tailored support mechanisms, including financial literacy programs, fair compensation, and expanded pension schemes. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of collaborative efforts among religious institutions, policymakers, and community organizations to improve retirement planning. Recommendation: Recommendations include financial education, compensation reform, and community support to ensure better retirement preparedness. Further research is suggested to evaluate the long-term effects of these interventions on clergy retirement outcomes.

Youth exposure to violence and victimization in a South African community sample

Background: Studies show that youth in low socioeconomic communities suffer significant disturbances in mental and emotional health because of exposure to violence and peer victimisation, manifesting in internalising disorders such as depression, anxiety and traumatic stress.Aim: To examine the relation between risks and exposure to community violence and peer victimisation.Setting: Low socioeconomic communities in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal.Methods: Data were collected via school and home interviews with youth and maternal caregivers using standardised schedules and instruments. These included the Demographics and Questions about Child’s Health schedule, the Family History of Risk Questionnaire, the Child Behaviour Checklist, the Social Experiences Questionnaire and the Survey of Children’s Exposure to Violence. Youth sample comprised 256 participants, with age range from 9 to 18 years, and 65% being female.Results: Sociodemographic risks were significantly associated with lifetime witnessing violence, victimisation and hearing about violence. Low maternal education was associated with overt peer victimisation and cyber-victimisation. Internalising conditions such as worry and oversensitivity, fear and concentration, youth anxiety and maternal anxiety were also significantly associated with violence exposure and peer victimisation.Conclusion: Predisposing risks for exposure to violence and victimisation occur in all domains, suggesting that interventions should target these domains to minimise their impact. Co-occurring experience of violence at the personal, proximal and distal levels perpetuate a cyclical loop of violence, intersecting and influencing each other.Contribution: Risk factors such as anxious attachment, avoidant attachment and anxiety, conceptually often seen as maladaptive outcomes, also serve as predisposing risks for violence exposure.

The Oral Health Status and Anthropometric Measurements of Children at Early Childhood Development Centers in an Informal Settlement in Pretoria, South Africa.

Early childhood caries (ECC) continue to increase, especially among low socioeconomic communities. This study was conducted in an informal settlement comprising mostly foreigners who have settled in the area. Given the limited dental and medical services available to these communities, this study aimed to determine the dental and medical disease profile of these inhabitants. The objective was to determine the oral health status and the body mass index (BMI) of children attending crèches in an informal settlement. Oral health data, including dental caries (DC), soft tissue lesions, fluorosis, erosion, and trauma, were recorded using the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended methods. The examiners were calibrated, and all examinations took place at the crèches under natural sunlight. The BMI was calculated by a team of dieticians who were blinded to the oral health status. The height and weight were measured by calibrated examiners under standardized conditions. There were a total of 169 participants; the mean age was 4.02 years (±1.13; 1-7) and there was an equal distribution of males and females (49.7% females and 49.3% males). The prevalence of DC was 39.1%, with 19% having 4 or more carious teeth. The mean decayed, missing, and filled teeth (dmft) and plaque scores [Simplified Oral Hygiene Index (OHI-S)] were 1.58 (±2.70) and 0.65 (±0.43), respectively, and the mean dmft score increased with increasing age. The mean d component contributed 99% of the total mean dmft score (1.56). The mean BMI was 15.44, and this decreased significantly (p = 0.009) while the OHI increased significantly (p < 0.001) as the number of carious teeth increased. The prevalence of caries was relatively high, and those with caries had multiple decayed teeth. The d component contributed almost 100% to the mean score, indicating a lack of access to dental care. The mean BMI score was inversely proportional to the number of carious teeth, which could imply that those with caries had difficulty eating. Bhayat A, Madiba TK, Beeforth M, et al. The Oral Health Status and Anthropometric Measurements of Children at Early Childhood Development Centers in an Informal Settlement in Pretoria, South Africa. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(8):903-906.