Association between psychological distress and chronic periodontitis in Sri Lankan adults.

OBJECTIVE

to determine the association between psychological distress and chronic periodontitis in 30-60 year olds residing in Colombo district, Sri Lanka.

BASIC RESEARCH

DESIGN

an unmatched case control study which included 694 cases and 706 controls. An interviewer administered pre-tested questionnaire was used to obtain information on socio-demographic and behavioural factors while an oral examination was carried out to record periodontal parameters. Psychological distress was assessed using a validated Sinhala version of the General Health Questionnaire-30.

PARTICIPANTS

30-60 year olds residing in Colombo district, Sri Lanka.

RESULTS

the odds of having chronic periodontits was nearly three times more (OR=2.71, 95% CI= 2.09-3.51) in those with psychological distress compared to those without psychological distress. Further sex, age group, level of education, current smoking and self reported diabetes were associated with chronic periodontits.

CONCLUSION

psychological distress is an independent risk factor for CP in this population.