Tooth decay and gum disease among adults have been reported for 95% of the population with lower education and socioeconomic status in Colombia. A quasi-experimental study was conducted to design and test a model to improve dental hygiene among families living in the poorest neighborhoods in Medellín. A group of 86 families (700 individuals) served by a subsidized health service (COMFAMA) were selected to participate in the study, half of them were randomly assigned to the intervention group, and the other half to the control group. Baseline evaluation included a survey of knowledge, attitudes and behavior, a detailed dental examination performed by dentists, and a series of focus groups to gather in depth information about feelings, social norms and media consumption. Qualitative information indicated that mothers should be the target audience. Given the limited literacy rate, and their media preferences, a novella format was chosen. Radio and photo versions of the novella were developed, minimizing the health related information, and building a cheerful love story called “Por Amor Propio,” carefully following the Stages of Change Model. Mothers listened to the story during 4 home visits. Outcome evaluation showed significant changes in knowledge and attitudes, along with 25% increase in frequent tooth-brushing, 48% increase in flossing, 20% reduction in plaque and 250% decrease in gum bleeding in the intervention group, while none of these changes were observed in the control group.
Learning Objectives: 1. Discuss priorities for dental hygiene promotion among low income families in Latin America 2. Present an entertainment and theory based model to promote health among low litteracy families in Latin America.
Keywords: Oral Health, Latin American
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Instituto de Ciencias de la Salud - CES / COMFAMA
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.