Type-1 Diabetes Mellitus and Oral Health: Knowledge, Attitudes & Practices(KAP)

Abstract

Objectives: To investigate oral health KAP among children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus; and to determine socio-demographic and medical status variations in KAP. Methods: In collaboration with the Hong Kong Juvenile Diabetes Association, members were invited to participate in a KAP assessment and undergo a clinical oral examination. KAP was assessed using a structured questionnaire and the clinical assessment was conducted focusing on periodontal health status by trained and calibrated examiners.

Results: The response rate to the KAP assessment was 56% (98/174) and 33% (33/98) to the oral epidemiological component. Knowledge about the oral health effects of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus was fragmented. Attitudes/self reported oral health findings suggest that oral symptoms were common: 82.7% (81) reporting one or more oral symptoms, 94.8% (93) reported an oral health impact on quality of life. Practices (oral health behaviour) was generally acceptable in terms of oral self care (77.3%, 75 reporting to brush twice a day) but regular dental attendance was low (35.7%, 35). Clinical oral health status indicated poor periodontal health status with 93.3% of sites examined showing evidence of gingival inflammation. Socio-demographic variations in KAP and clinical oral health status were evident (p<0.05); most noticeably with respect to parental education attainment and family income. Reported medical status was not associated with KAP nor clinical oral health status (p> 0.05).

Conclusions: KAP are inadequate among individuals with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus and their periodontal health status is poor. There is need to consider oral health promotion initiatives to improve oral health among individuals with Type 1 Diabetes and also to improve their glycemic control.