RCT on Effectiveness of Oral Health Preventive Programmes in School Children in Uganda

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF BERN · Oct 10, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is focused on understanding and improving oral health among school children in Gulu Municipality, Uganda. Specifically, it aims to find out how common dental issues like cavities (dental caries) are among children and what risk factors contribute to these problems. The trial will also test different ways to prevent and treat cavities without surgery, using simple methods. Researchers will collect information from 610 school children, then compare the dental health of those who receive cleaning tools and support with those who do not.

To participate, children need to be enrolled in a primary school in Gulu, aged between 5 and 17 years, and have lived in the area for at least six months. Their parents or guardians must agree to let them join the study. Participants will have their dental health assessed according to international guidelines, and they’ll receive education on maintaining good oral hygiene. This trial is significant as it is the first of its kind in Uganda, aiming to enhance our understanding of children's oral health and the effectiveness of community-based strategies to prevent cavities.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Enrollment in one of primary schools in Gulu Municipality
• • Age between 5 and 17 years
• • Staying in the area for at least six months
• • Parent/guardian's willingness to give consent
• • Written informed consent by participant and/or parents
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • School children who refuse to participate in the research
• • Parents who refuse their children's participation
• • Children with chronic diseases or systemic conditions that require differential care and follow-up