2 articles
Oral health is an essential component of overall health and well-being. The levels of knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to oral health are key determinants in the prevention of dental and periodontal diseases. Assessing these aspects across different population groups is crucial for identifying specific educational needs and developing effective strategies for the promotion and maintenance of oral health.
Data from scientific publications indexed in PubMed, Hinari, SpringerLink, NCBI, and Medline databases were analyzed. The selection criteria included current evidence regarding oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices among different population groups. Observational, cross-sectional, descriptive and quantitative studies, as well as meta-analyses published between 2005 and 2026, were included.
The vast majority of the adult population (>90%) demonstrated a high level of oral health knowledge; however, fewer than half exhibited positive attitudes and appropriate behaviors necessary for proper oral care. Among adolescents, the proportion of individuals with satisfactory oral health knowledge ranged from 59% to 77%, while positive attitudes ranged from 57% to 92%. Female adolescents showed significantly better knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors related to oral health compared with their male counterparts. Dental students demonstrated higher levels of oral health knowledge and more positive attitudes than students from other academic disciplines, with significant improvements observed alongside academic progression and increasing clinical experience. They were better trained in toothbrushing techniques, reported a higher frequency of toothbrushing, used supplementary oral hygiene products more frequently, had a lower prevalence of gingival diseases, and attended preventive dental check-ups more regularly.
Although oral health knowledge is generally satisfactory, it is not always reflected in appropriate oral health behaviors. The implementation of oral health education programs at all educational levels is essential for improving oral hygiene practices and promoting the overall health of the population.
The term "hepatitis" implies liver damage by inflammatory cells, a condition with numerous origins. Viruses, predominantly hepatitis B and C viruses cause most cases of hepatitis, which can lead to chronic liver diseases. Assessing the general knowledge and awareness of the population regarding viral hepatitis is crucial for developing targeted and effective strategies to address these epidemics. This knowledge can help tailor interventions for different population strata, such as youth and adults, thereby enhancing the impact of prevention and care efforts.
An exhaustive search of relevant literature was performed in electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. Key terms included "viral hepatitis B," "viral hepatitis C," "knowledge," "attitudes," "practices," and "population." Articles included in the analysis were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria.
In a Nigerian hospital, 33% of healthcare workers lacked knowledge of hepatitis B, and 35% were not immunized. In an Iraqi study, 75% believed HBV is more easily transmitted than HIV, and 33.9% knew HBV could spread through toothbrushes. In India, most medical students were aware of hepatitis B (84.8%). Their knowledge about transmission through blood transfusion (81.06%) and needles (74.1%) was good, but they had poor knowledge about other modes of transmission and clinical features. A study in Tehsil Wazirabad, Gujranwala found good knowledge about hepatitis C transmission and symptoms. In Saudi Arabia, dental students revealed insufficient knowledge about hepatitis B infection. Practice levels varied, with 47.2% showing high practice and 22% low practice. Female participants exhibited higher knowledge, attitudes, and practices. In Gauteng province, South Africa, a 2015 study found that healthcare workers had inadequate knowledge of viral hepatitis. The average knowledge score was 2.0 out of 6, while practice and attitude scores were higher.
A significant difference in knowledge levels regarding viral hepatitis B and C was highlighted within the population. The overall level of knowledge regarding viral hepatitis B and C remains inadequate among both medical personnel and the general population. There is a growing need for education and awareness about viral hepatitis B and C.