SOCIOECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL DETERMINANTS OF ORAL HEALTH IN A COMMUNITY IN BOLIVIA

https://doi.org/10.56274/rcs.2025.4.1.53

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to determine the socioeconomic and environmental determinants that affected the oral health of a community in Bolivia located in the city of Santa Cruz de la Sierra called El Barrial. The research, of a quantitative, observational and non-experimental nature, used a sample of 75 people over 18 years of age residing in said community. The information was obtained through surveys on income, educational level, type of housing, access to drinking water and perception of dental health. The results showed that individuals with lower incomes and lower educational levels tended to brush their teeth less frequently and had limited access to oral health services. “Tooth brushing frequency was significantly related to income level, educational level and type of housing. In addition, knowledge about water fluoridation and access to drinking water also influenced oral health”. “These results highlighted the urgent need to implement interventions aimed at improving access to oral health resources and services, with the aim of promoting education on the importance of dental hygiene”. “The implementation of public policies that address these inequalities could significantly improve oral health in rural communities such as El Barrial”, reducing disparities and promoting comprehensive well-being.