Assessment of Maternal Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards Development of Nursing Caries among Preschool Going Children in Bangladesh

Abstract

Objectives:The purpose of the study was to assess the level of maternal knowledge, attitude, and practice towards the development of nursing caries among preschool-going children (2 -5 years of age) in Bangladesh. Methods:A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 384 Bangladeshi mothers having preschool-going children (2 -5 years of age).Using a web-based survey and a convenience sampling technique, data were collected through a self-administered questionnaire containing 34 questions on mother's knowledge of nursing caries, their family background, child's dietary habits, oral hygiene-related habits and practices, and child's feeding practices.The data were statistically analyzed using STATA version (16).The relationship between the mother's KAP and various risk factors was tested using Chi-square.Binary and multiple logistic regressions were conducted to check for independent predictors of KAP of nursing caries among pre-school-going children.A p value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results:We found an overall good knowledge, practice, and a positive attitude score of the mothers of, 62.5%, 70.99%, and 53.15% respectively.Good knowledge of mothers showed an association with their employment status (p value = 0.017).However, among 384 mothers, only 36% were aware of the importance of using fluoridated toothpaste with 22% who knew the recommended portion of toothpaste to be used for 2 -5 years old children. Conclusion:Though maternal knowledge and attitude towards nursing caries were relatively high, it could be beneficial to create further awareness on using an appropriate amount and type of toothpaste to be used among 2 -5-year-old children.