Sugar consumption and dental caries at global level

Background: Before the turn of the century, a global decline in dental caries was apparent. However, recent studies indicate a significant increase in the prevalence of dental caries at the global level. The purpose of the study is to investigate any association between sugar consumption and dental caries in developed countries, developing countries and among different WHO regions. Methods: An ecological study will investigate the above relationships. Sugar consumption data will be obtained from the International Sugar Organization (ISO) and caries data from the WHO. Sugar consumption will be expressed as Kg/person/year and caries experience as decayed (D), missing due to caries (M), and filled teeth (DMFT). While an independent-sample t-test will investigate any difference in sugar consumption and dental caries experience between developed and developing countries. Analysis of variance will test the difference in the same parameters among the different WHO regions. Pearson correlation will be used to test the relationship between sugar consumption and dental caries at developed and developing countries and at the regional levels. Results: An increasing/decreasing trends in sugar consumption and/or caries will be identified. We anticipate difference in sugar consumption as well as caries experience between developing and developed countries. The study may show a positive association between sugar consumption and caries. Conclusions: Factors contributing to any differences in sugar consumption and caries experience will be discussed along with the reasons for any association between sugar consumption and dental caries at the global level.