Oral Pain and Emergency Care in Tanzania
Author Information
Author(s): Kikwilu Emil Namakuka, Masalu Joyce Rose, Kahabuka Febronia Kokulengya, Senkoro Ahadieli Raphael
Primary Institution: Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences
Hypothesis
What are the prevalence of oral pain and the barriers to using emergency oral care facilities among adult Tanzanians?
Conclusion
Oral pain and discomfort were prevalent among adult Tanzanians, but only a quarter sought emergency care.
Supporting Evidence
- 42% of respondents had utilized oral health care facilities at least once.
- 59% experienced oral pain in the last year, but only 26.5% sought treatment.
- Financial constraints were the most common reason for not seeking care.
Takeaway
Many adults in Tanzania have tooth pain, but most don't go to the dentist when they need to.
Methodology
Data were collected through questionnaires from 1,759 adults aged 18 and above across urban and rural areas.
Potential Biases
Potential selection bias due to the method of participant recruitment.
Limitations
The study may not be fully representative as it did not use probability sampling and only included adults present at home during the study.
Participant Demographics
Adults aged 18 to 92 years, with a mean age of 40 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Confidence Interval
CI 1.07–1.57
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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