51. Public conceptions of the impact of oral health on quality of life
- Author
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J T Newton
- Subjects
Gerontology ,Key factors ,business.industry ,Life quality ,Normative ,Medicine ,Norm (social) ,Oral health ,business ,Social class ,General Dentistry - Abstract
Objectives The aims of this study were to establish normative age-gender values for the UK oral health related quality of life measure (OHQoL-UK©) in Britain and to provide a local reference for its interpretation. In addition, to identify key factors associated with oral health related quality of life in the UK. Materials and methods A national survey conducted with the assistance of the Office for National Statistics involving a random probability sample of 2,718 households. Participants were interviewed about their oral health status. The impact of oral health on quality of life was measured using the 16 item OHQoL-UK measure. Results The response rate was 68% (1,838/2,718). The majority (75%, 1,378/1,838) perceived their oral health as affecting their life quality and did so across a wide range of domains. Age-gender norm values are presented. Variations in OHQoL-UK scores were apparent in relation to socio-demographics: age (P < 0.05), social class (P < 0.01), and self-reported oral health status: number of teeth possessed (P < 0.01). Conclusions The impact of oral health on the life quality of Britons was substantial, in both positive and negative ways and associated with socio-demographic and oral health (self-reported) factors. National norm values presented should provide a reference source for meaningful interpretation of similar data and local studies.
- Published
- 2002
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