GPHW2023: Caries Risk Assessment, Nutritional Status and Literacy in Portuguese Schools

Theme: Tackling the Climate Crisis

Date and Time: 04 April 2023 | 12:00 – 12:30 (CEST)

Event Description: “Eat well, Smile better” is an innovation and social entrepreneur initiative provided by the Portuguese Dental Council alongside with the Portuguese Council of Nutrition. It aims at fighting health inequalities which are a growing concern. A five months cross-sectional study was carried out among students between 6 and 11 years in 109 schools in a Portuguese low-density area. An inquiry applied to assign the children’s risk of developing cavities, according to the Caries Management by Risk Assessment criteria (CAMBRA®). Exploration was done by two qualified dentists in a mobile clinic properly equipped. The nutritional status was assessed by a nutritionist, using the anthropometric measures height and weight employing a stadiometer and a scale SECA®. The classification of nutritional status was based in the WHO percentiles of body mass index for age and sex. A literacy inquiry was done to the students to understand their knowledge about oral habits and nutrition. In total, 2395 scholars were included. The dental cavities prevalence was 51% and 39,2% of the students were overweight. Regarding literacy, 76,5% of the scholars believe that they should do a water mouth rinse after brushing and 84,8% don’t know that chicken is a source of protein. This study raises concerns about oral health, nutritional status and literacy. Preventive programs may offer a new approach to these problems.

Event Type: Exhibition

Event Format: Virtual

Language(s): English

Organiser(s):

How to Attend In-person: N/A

How to Attend Virtually: Zoom

Registration: N/A