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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Mikiyasu Hakoyama, MA, Family and Child Ecology, Michigan State University, 407 Human Ecology Bldg, East Lansing, MI 48824-1030, 517-353-3392, hakoyama@msu.edu

As is the case with other aspects of physical health as well as mental health, preventive behavior becomes a key in maintaining oral health. Along with regular and constant everyday effort in maintaining oral hygiene, preventive behavior such as having a regular dental check-up is believed to be highly effective in maintaining oral health. In promoting community oral health, it becomes imperative to scrutinize how widely preventive behavior is practiced. Identification of health characteristics associated with oral preventive behavior also becomes essential. Based on the health needs, preferences, and utilization survey conducted in four rural counties in central Michigan, oral preventive health-related community health was assessed. Over 3,500 surveys were returned and analyzed. Nearly one half (44.7%) of the respondents were found to be neglectful of having a dental check-up every two years. Several demographic variables such as age, gender, education level, family income, marital status and county of residence were found to be associated with the preventive behavior of the residents. Dental check-up frequency was also found to be associated with health behavior such as exercise frequency, eating, smoking and drinking habits. Respondents' general health perception and weight status were also associated with dental check-up frequency. The findings in this study are believed to be very important in developing an effective strategy to promote oral community health in the US. Replication of this study is recommended in planning effective community health interventions in similar settings.

Learning Objectives: • At the conclusion of this session, the participants (learners) in this session will be able to

• Identify demographic and behavioral characteristics associated with dental check-up frequency.
• Articulate the processes for identifying variables associated with oral preventive health behavior.
• Discuss recommendations to improve community oral health by promoting preventive health behavior.

Keywords: Oral Health, Prevention

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered