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Oral Hygiene Behavior Among Asylum Seekers and Refugees Using Health Beliefs Model: A Cross-Sectional Study
Lujain Alchalabi1,2, Emmanuel Schaffner1,2, Yaman Maani-Abuzahra1,2
1Swiss Tropical and Public Health Institute (Swiss TPH), Allschwil, Switzerland.
International Journal of Public Health
|March 11, 2026
Summary
Oral hygiene behavior among asylum seekers and refugees (ASR) was often inadequate. Self-efficacy, autonomy, perceived benefits, and fewer barriers were linked to better oral hygiene, suggesting targets for interventions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Health Behavior Research
- Cross-cultural Health Studies
Background:
- Oral hygiene behavior (OHB) is crucial for overall health.
- Asylum seekers and refugees (ASR) may face unique challenges impacting their OHB.
- Understanding determinants of OHB in ASR populations is essential for targeted health promotion.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine oral hygiene behavior (OHB) among asylum seekers and refugees (ASR).
- To identify Health Belief Model (HBM)-based determinants associated with OHB in this population.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional survey of 300 Arabic-speaking ASRs in Switzerland.
- Analysis of associations between OHB (toothbrushing, interdental cleaning) and HBM variables.
- Mixed logistic regression models adjusted for demographic factors.
Main Results:
- Inadequate OHB was prevalent (47% inadequate toothbrushing, 65% inadequate interdental cleaning).
- Higher self-efficacy, perceived benefits, and autonomy were associated with adequate OHB.
- Barriers such as lack of knowledge and time were linked to reduced OHB.
Conclusions:
- Self-efficacy, autonomy, perceived benefits, and barriers are significant determinants of OHB in ASRs.
- These HBM constructs offer potential targets for future intervention studies to improve ASR oral health.
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