[Evaluation of the need for periodontal treatment in prisons near Dakar, Senegal].

INTRODUCTION

Oral diseases qualify as major public health problems due to their high prevalence and incidence. They usually affect poor and marginal segments of the population. This study focused on the prison population that is characterized by poor living conditions and malnutrition. The aim of study was to assess the need for periodontal care in prisoners serving time in the Dakar region of Senegal.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study included 375 prisoners serving in three facilities, i.e. the penal camp, Liberte VI prison for women, and Rufisque prison for women. Data were collected using a modified WHO information sheet. The community periodontal index of treatment needs (CPITN) was used for scoring. Statistical analysis with stratification by sex and age was performed and tests were considered as significant for p < or = 0.05.

RESULTS

There were 335 men (89.3%) and 40 women (10.7%) with a sex ratio of 8.3. Mean age was 35 years +/- 11.5 (range, 16-88). Mean prison time was 39.29 months +/- 17.73. The proportion of prisoners needing periodontal treatment increased gradually according to prison time with significant differences (p < 0.05) even after stratification.

CONCLUSION

Better management taking into account the environment and prison time would reduce the need for periodontal treatment in prisons in Dakar.