Oral Health of African Immigrants: A participatory approach to needs assessment

Dental care service use is lower in the immigrant population in the US, with the African immigrant population increasing at a much higher rate. We aimed to evaluate the barriers faced by the African immigrant community through a participatory needs assessment approach.

Photovoice, a qualitative research method was used to collect the data. Thirty participants were recruited from community events, churches, and African community-serving organizations. Participants took photographs related to oral health research questions. Focus groups were conducted with the participants to discuss the clicked pictures. The focus group data were transcribed and analyzed using an inductive and thematic approach using Atlas Ti®.

The response rate was 90% and six focus groups were conducted. Focus group data demonstrated participants' knowledge of good oral health and preventive oral behaviors; physical, financial and psychosocial barriers to accessing dental care; and cultural and social beliefs of the community. The participants had good knowledge about oral hygiene habits and dietary factors impacting the oral health of their community. Several barriers including, lack of perceived oral health needs, transportation, time, insurance, fear, and trust were identified that prevent them to access dental care.

Further research is warranted to understand the cultural norms and perceived needs of the African immigrant community. Increasing our understanding of such knowledge can support in improving the cultural competency of the oral health workforce.