PREVALENCE OF DENTAL CARIES AMONG THE POPULATION OF HIGH-ALTITUDE REGIONS IN SOUTHERN KYRGYZSTAN

Abstract

Relevance. The relevance of this study is determined by the high prevalence of dental caries among the population of high-altitude regions of the Kyrgyz Republic, the insufficient level of preventive measures, and the limited accessibility of dental care services. The study aims to evaluate the prevalence, intensity, and risk factors for the development of dental caries among the population of the high-altitude areas of Southern Kyrgyzstan. The object of the study is the oral health of residents in high-altitude districts, assessed by the condition of dental hard tissues, the DMFT index, and the level of oral hygiene. The materials and methods included clinical dental examinations of 720 individuals aged (7-60 years), assessment of caries prevalence and DMF index, as well as a questionnaire survey of 650 participants to identify risk factors. Statistical analysis was carried out using methods of variation statistics and Student’s t-test. The results revealed a high prevalence of dental caries: 88% among children aged 7–12 years, 92% among adolescents aged 13–17 years, and 96% among adults. The DMFT index increased with age (from 3.2 to 6.8), the key risk factors identified were poor oral hygiene, frequent consumption of sugary foods, infrequent dental visits, and fluoride deficiency in drinking water. The obtained data dictate the feasibility of developing comprehensive preventive programs aimed at reducing the prevalence, minimizing the intensity increment of caries, and improving the level of oral health among the population of the high-altitude districts of the Southern region of the Kyrgyz Republic.