Genetic sensitivity to 6-n-propylthiouracil (PROP) as a screening tool for obesity and dental caries in children

Dental caries and childhood obesity epidemics are multifactorial complex disease and children's dietary pattern is a common underlying etiologic factor in their causation. Dietary preferences and taste are genetically determined. In the present study children were identified who are at greater risk for developing dental caries and obesity so as to institute preventive measures at an early stage.

Among 500 children belonging to the age group of 8-12 years of both sexes PROP sensitivity test was carried out. Body mass index was determined and the caries experience was recorded. A Questionnaire was prepared and given to the parents of the children to evaluate their dietary habits. The results were subjected to statistical analysis using prevalence test, ANOVA test and chi-square test.

We found that the non taster children had higher caries experience and body weight respectively as compared to children who were super-tasters and medium tasters. Super-tasters tended to be sweet and fatty food dislikers and non-tasters tended to be likers.

The PROP test proved to be a useful tool in determining the genetic sensitivity levels of the bitter taste and could be used as a useful screening tool to identify children at risk of developing obesity and dental caries.