Untreated Severe Dental Decay and Low BMI in Filipino Children
Author Information
Author(s): Benzian Habib, Monse Bella, Heinrich-Weltzien Roswitha, Hobdell Martin, Mulder Jan, van Palenstein Helderman Wim
Primary Institution: Fit for School Inc.
Hypothesis
An association between dental decay and low BMI in 12-year-old Filipino children does not exist.
Conclusion
The study found a significant association between untreated dental decay and low BMI, particularly highlighting the impact of odontogenic infections.
Supporting Evidence
- 82.3% of children had caries.
- 55.7% had odontogenic infections due to caries.
- 27.1% of children had a BMI below normal.
Takeaway
Kids with bad teeth might not grow as well as they should. If their teeth hurt because of infections, they might not eat enough food.
Methodology
Data was collected through a representative cross-sectional study using a modified, stratified cluster sampling design.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the socio-economic factors not being fully accounted for.
Limitations
The study design is cross-sectional, limiting the ability to identify causative factors.
Participant Demographics
The sample included 949 boys and 1002 girls aged 11-13 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.001
Confidence Interval
95% CI; 80.6%-84.0%
Statistical Significance
p < 0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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