Prevalence of periodontal disease, associated factors among adults 19-65 years living in slum areas of Katanga in Mulago, Kawempe Division

Abstract

Background: Periodontal diseases are a major public health problem worldwide, affecting a significant proportion of the adult population. There is limited data on the prevalence of periodontal diseases in Uganda and the associated factors among adults in slum areas of Kampala Capital City. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of periodontal disease and associated factors among adults living in one of the slum areas of Kampala, that is Katanga Mulago in Kawempe Division. Methods: This study was a community cross-sectional study conducted in slum areas of Katanga Mulago. A total of 517 adults aged 19 years to 65 years in Katanga were interviewed. The dependent variable was presence of periodontal disease which was determined by the response to whether one has ever had bleeding of their gums or not. Data was collected using a questionnaire. The questionnaire collected information on socio-demographic characteristics, oral hygiene practices, and health-seeking behaviours. The data was analysed at univariable, bivariable, and multivariable levels using STATA version 15. Results: of the 517 participants, 50.48% of the study participants were males and 49.52% females, the mean age was 29.7(±9.6) years. overall, 35.4% (183/517) of the respondents were aged between 19-24, while 39.1% (202/517) were aged between 25-34. 8.1% (44/517) were 45 years and above. 43.71% 226/517) had secondary education and 194/517(37.52%) had attained primary level of education as the highest education level. The overall prevalence of periodontal disease was 54.4%. Univariate analysis revealed that the prevalence of periodontal disease was associated with age, family size, marital status, poor attitudes toward oral health, and duration of brushing. However, based on the multivariate model, this prevalence was only significantly associated with being aged 35-44 years (APR=1.43; 95%CI:1.13-1.80) and 45+ years (APR=1.47; 95%CI: 1.09-5.98) duration of brushing (APR=1.33; 95%CI: 1.11 - 1.61) and poor attitude towards oral health (APR=1.22; 95%CI: 1.28 – 1.45). Conclusion: Periodontal disease is highly prevalent in adults aged 19-65years living in slum areas, especially those with poor attitudes towards oral health. MOH should develop and disseminate public health education materials specifically tailored to improving oral health practices through mass media communication.