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A hospital-based oral health education program impacts in pediatric cancer patients-A pilot study

Maria Eduarda Alves Sampaio1, Paula Maria Maracajá Bezerra1, Fabio Gomes Dos Santos1

  • 1Postgraduate Program in Dentistry, Federal University of Paraíba, João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brazil.

Special Care in Dentistry : Official Publication of the American Association of Hospital Dentists, the Academy of Dentistry for the Handicapped, and the American Society for Geriatric Dentistry
|March 10, 2023
PubMed

Insights

An oral health education and preventive program (OHEPP) significantly improved periodontal health and reduced plaque in pediatric cancer patients. This intervention helped prevent oral mucositis lesions during cancer therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Oral Medicine
  • Preventive Dentistry

Background:

  • Pediatric cancer patients undergoing antineoplastic treatments are at high risk for oral complications.
  • Maintaining oral health is crucial for improving treatment tolerance and quality of life in these patients.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the effectiveness of an oral health education and preventive program (OHEPP) tailored for pediatric cancer patients.
  • To assess the program's impact on periodontal health, plaque levels, and oral mucositis development.

Main Methods:

  • A single-arm study involving 27 pediatric patients undergoing cancer treatment.
  • Oral health was assessed over 10 weeks using the Modified Gingival Index (MGI), Visible Plaque Index (VPI), and Oral Assessment Guide (OAG).
  • Education was delivered via audiovisual resources, storytelling, and interactive tools to patients and caregivers.

Main Results:

  • Significant reductions in mean MGI (0.82 to 0.33) and VPI (54.11% to 19.83%) were observed (p < .05).
  • The mean OAG score decreased, and the incidence of severe oral mucositis (SOM) was documented.
  • Higher MGI scores correlated with an increased likelihood of developing SOM.

Conclusions:

  • The OHEPP demonstrated a positive impact on the oral health of pediatric cancer patients.
  • The program effectively improved periodontal status, reduced biofilm accumulation, and aided in preventing oral mucositis lesions.
Abstract

Keywords:
health educationoncology hospitaloral healthpediatric dentistryspecial needs

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