Background
The literature has shown the relationship between maternal periodontitis and complications associated with pregnancy. Thus, prevalence estimates and risk factor identification for periodontitis during pregnancy in Rwanda are paramount.
Aim
The aim of the current study was to determine the prevalence of periodontitis and identify related risk factors among pregnant women in Rwanda.
Methods
A cross sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of periodontal diseases in a convenience sample of 400 pregnant women in the Southern Province of Rwanda. A logistic regression analysis using a hierarchical approach was performed to assess the risk factors for periodontal disease. Socio demographic factors were put in the regression model first followed by a second step for other potential factors.
Results
The overall prevalence of periodontitis was 60.5%. Multivariable logistic regression showed that age OR=2.48 (95% CI. 1.18-5.22), education level OR=82.15 (95% CI. 8.21-822.11), socio economic status OR=2.28 (95% CI. 1.49-6.62), employment status OR=7.3 (95% CI. 1.38-38.74, and tobacco use OR=6.89 (95% CI. 1.78-60.65) were significantly associated with periodontitis.
Conclusion
Periodontitis appears to be a common problem among pregnant women in Rwanda. Risk factor screening could help identify pregnant women at higher risk of periodontal disease.
Rwanda J Med Health Sci 2021;4(1):131-15
