Prevalence of Dental Caries and Associated Factors, as well as Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) in Children and Adolescents in a Rural Community in Eritrea.

BackgroundExisting studies in central areas of Eritrea showed high prevalence of dental caries, however, there is gap of knowledge regarding the burden in the rural areas. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of dental caries and its associated factors as well as knowledge, attitude and practice of students in Nakfa town, a rural and remote regions of Eritrea. MethodsThis study is school based cross sectional study conducted among 401 Junior and high-school students in three schools in Nakfa town. The study used multistage sampling method where finally Students were randomly selected. Self-administered closed end questionnaire with 28 questions were used to collect the data. Dental examination was done by two 5 year experienced and certified dental therapists. All data analysis was done using SPSS version 26. ResultsOverall prevalence of dental caries was 65.3% with mean DMFT index and mean significant index (SiC) of 2.03(SD{+/-}2.3) and 4.57(SD{+/-}1.9), respectively. Mean DMFT index was higher among the older age group (19-23 age group) and those who use traditional stick method of tooth cleaning. Our study also found that higher consumption of porridge was associated with higher prevalence of dental caries as well as higher mean DMFT index. Multivariate analysis showed that age group of 19-23 had 80% higher DMFT index than those 12-14 age category (AIRR= 1.8, 95% CI: 1.1-3). Furthermore, participants who use traditional method of cleaning tooth had 40% higher DMFT than those who use tooth brush with paste (AIRR= 1.40, 95% CI: 1.06-1.8). This study showed taht most of the participants had sufficient knowledge and positive attitude, 61.3% and 73.8% respectively, however, only 8.7% had adequate oral hygiene practice. ConclusionThe prevalence of dental caries was high in Junior and high school students in Nakfa town. High consumption of porridge is associated with high prevalence and high mean DMFT. This study also found that older age group and usage of traditional stick method of teeth cleaning is associated with higher DMFT. The overall level of knowledge and attitude of participants towards oral health was good whereas practice was suboptimal.