Relationship between Oral Health and General Health in Elderly Population in Georgia

Abstract

Background: Elderly population increases worldwide and it is predicted to increase
further. This demographic shift provides significant challenges for the health
authorities worldwide. Significant increase of the older population is also observed in
Georgia.
Aim: The aim of the study was to assess correlations between oral health and general
health in the elderly population in Georgia.
Methods: We conducted the study based on WHO recommendations. We examined
843 older people (aged 65 years and more) representing the Georgian population,
including 582 female and 261 male; also divided them into three age groups: 65-74,
75-84, >85 years old. The study was conducted in 2017-2018 years. For statistical
analysis, we used the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 22.0. The
study got the approval from the bioethics council.
Results: We assessed correlations of oral conditions with diabetes, cardiovascular
diseases, Gastroenterological diseases, respiratory diseases, cancer and dementia.
Good oral hygiene was observed only in 2.2% of patients with healthy periodontal
tissue and 0.5% of patients with unhealthy periodontal tissue. P<0.0001.
Conclusion: This study supports the correlation between oral health, general health
and quality of life. Also, demonstrates an urgent need of answering to the challenges
in dental care services.

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The possible outcomes may include a better integration of oral health care into
general health care, implementation of new programs in order to improve access to
oral health care.

Keywords: Gerodontology, Oral health, General health.