PROBLEM: Periodontal disease is among the most common chronic health conditions impacting the health of adults. At the same time, systemic diseases, such as diabetes, have long been associated with periodontal disease. Prevalence data for diabetes and periodontal risk status were unknown at one community oral health center that primarily serves low-income and Spanish-speaking patients. The purpose of this project was to obtain prevalence data for diabetes risk and the periodontal status of adult patients provided with oral hygiene care during 2022-23 and identify perceived barriers to obtaining preventive oral health care.
METHODS: Following IRB approval, Adult patients were assessed for periodontal status (per AAP Stage) and diabetes risk (per ADA risk assessment). Patients were provided research and educational materials in Spanish & English. All patients were provided care and educational materials. A researcher designed questionnaire assessed patient perceived barriers to care.
RESULTS: Initial results identified 40.7% (n=22) of the participants as at-risk of pre-diabetes. This finding suggests the prevalence of pre-diabetes in this population may be higher than the national average of undiagnosed patients with diabetes. Results also showed that 64.3% (n=36) had Stage I or greater periodontal disease. This finding is also higher than prevalence estimates for periodontitis among U.S. adults. Patient perceived barriers to care were lack of financial resources/insurance and some had not sought care since the COVID-19 pandemic due to fear.
CONCLUSION: Findings suggest that the prevalence of both prediabetes and periodontal disease may be higher than national data within this patient population. These results inform patient treatment and intervention strategies for improving their clinical care for chronic disease management. Future studies should examine the inclusion of AbA1c testing to better assess diabetes status and interventions that provide assistance for community members who lack financial resources.
IRB#AY21-22-26
Funding: Project Funded by Weber Morgan Health Department
All abstract authors: Frances McConaughy MS, RDH, FADHA Kim Caldwell, MEd, RDH Amanda Gonzalez, MEd, RDH
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