AMASI epidemiological study on children living in L’Aquila

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ABSTRACT

Aim

The aim of the study is to observe the statistical relationship between children’s habits, oral heath, pregnancy history and breastfeeding.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was carried out on the pupils of the first and second grades of the primary schools of the “Silvestro” and “Amiternum” school districts of L’Aquila (Italy). The study population consisted of 496 (244 females and 252 males) students. The data were collected through anamnesis carried out by qualified health personnel before dental examination. According to the WHO criteria clinical teething examination standard, the presence of caries was determined by the dmft index (decayed-filled-missing deciduous teeth). Shapiro-Wilk test, Chi-square test and t test used. P values below 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

Results

The students were divided into three groups based on the feeding method: infant formula, mixed milk and breastfeeding and breastfeeding only. Data were compared. Statistical reports show that women who do not take drugs are more likely to breastfeed during pregnancy (p value = 0.039). Vaginal (p value< 0,001) and full-term (p value= 0,034) birth are statistically significantly associated with breastfeeding. Mothers who breastfeed their children do not smoke (p value= 0,039). Mixed feeding children show better dmft value (decayed-filledmissing deciduous teeth) than the other groups (p value= 0,035).

Conclusion

There is not enough evidence to advise against breastfeeding lasting more than one year due to the risk of tooth decay. Supportive practices need to be implemented to counteract risk factors. A larger sample is needed to study the role of human milk.

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