Pediatricians' Knowledge and Practices on Oral Disease Prevention in Italy
Author Information
Author(s): Di Giuseppe Gabriella, Nobile Carmelo GA, Marinelli Alessandra, Angelillo Italo F
Primary Institution: Department of Public, Clinical and Preventive Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
Hypothesis
What are the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of pediatricians regarding the prevention of oral diseases in Italy?
Conclusion
The study found that while pediatricians believe they have an important role in preventing oral diseases, there are significant gaps in their knowledge about the main risk factors.
Supporting Evidence
- 95.8% of pediatricians identified sugar consumption as a risk factor for caries.
- 89% prescribed dietary fluoride supplements.
- 94.8% believed they have a responsibility to prevent oral diseases.
Takeaway
Most pediatricians think they should help prevent oral diseases in kids, but many don't know enough about what causes these problems.
Methodology
A national cross-sectional survey was conducted using a questionnaire sent to a random sample of pediatricians.
Potential Biases
Social desirability bias may lead to overreporting of positive attitudes and practices.
Limitations
The study's cross-sectional design limits causal inferences, and self-reported data may not accurately reflect actual practices.
Participant Demographics
Pediatricians from various practice settings in Italy, with a response rate of 52.7%.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p < 0.0001
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 1.08–2.26
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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