Structural Equation Modeling of Oral Stomatitis and Its Determinants among the Sundanese Ethnic Group: Evidence from IFLS-5

Abstract

Background: Oral stomatitis is an inflammation of the mucosa in various oral structures such as cheeks, gums, tongue, lips, palate, and floor of the mouth that commonly occurs in communities, including among the Sundanese ethnic group. Risk factors affecting stomatitis incidence in the Sundanese population need to be analyzed for developing more effective prevention programs. Aim: To analyze risk factors for stomatitis among the Sundanese population using panel data from the Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS). Method: This was an analytical observational study using secondary data from IFLS-5. The research design employed structural equation modelling (SEM) analysis examining variables including age, gender, education, residential area classification, general health status, and smoking habits. Results: The study revealed that age and general health variables had significant associations with stomatitis occurrence (p<0,001). Ages below 25 years and suboptimal health conditions proved to be significant factors influencing increased stomatitis incidence. Meanwhile, gender, education level, residential area classification, and smoking habits showed no significant correlation. Conclusion: Age and general health status are the main risk factors for stomatitis occurrence among the Sundanese population, which can serve as a reference for prevention program development