Health disparities among children with cleft

Am J Public Health. 2012 May;102(5):828-30. doi: 10.2105/AJPH.2012.300654. Epub 2012 Mar 15.

Abstract

Oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) is a multidimensional construct that measures well-being associated with the teeth, mouth, and face. This cross-sectional study examined OHRQoL, demographic data, and clinical indicators in 839 treatment-seeking youths with cleft from 6 geographically diverse cleft treatment centers. Individuals without health insurance and representing ethnic minorities had lower OHRQoL scores on the Child Oral Health Impact Profile and a higher rate of surgical recommendations. These findings imply a risk factor for reduced OHRQoL and unmet needs among vulnerable youths with clefts.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Distribution
  • Child
  • Cleft Lip / ethnology*
  • Cleft Lip / psychology*
  • Cleft Lip / surgery
  • Cleft Palate / ethnology*
  • Cleft Palate / psychology*
  • Cleft Palate / surgery
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Healthcare Disparities / ethnology
  • Healthcare Disparities / statistics & numerical data*
  • Humans
  • Insurance Coverage / statistics & numerical data
  • Insurance, Health / statistics & numerical data
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Male
  • Minority Groups*
  • Multicenter Studies as Topic
  • Quality of Life*
  • Sex Distribution
  • Socioeconomic Factors