KAP and Oral Hygiene: Understanding Endocarditis Risk in Sindh's Low-Income Communities

Prof Dr Iftikhar Ahmed  Siddiqui; Fahad Ahmed  Khan; Syed Muhammad Fauzan Ali; Dr Yusra  Roohi; Dr Asma Muhammad  Asif; Dr Zobia  Amir; Uzair  Akram

Authors

Prof Dr Iftikhar Ahmed Siddiqui Baqai Institute of Health Management Sciences, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan Author https://orcid.org/0009-0006-3357-8548
Fahad Ahmed Khan Baqai Institute of Health Management Sciences, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan Author https://orcid.org/0009-0003-2136-0822
Syed Muhammad Fauzan Ali Baqai Institute of Health Management Sciences, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan Author https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2627-6112
Dr Yusra Roohi Baqai Institute of Health Management Sciences, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan Author https://orcid.org/0009-0003-4270-2510
Dr Asma Muhammad Asif Baqai Institute of Health Management Sciences, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan Author https://orcid.org/0009-0001-3315-3973
Dr Zobia Amir Baqai Institute of Health Management Sciences, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan Author https://orcid.org/0009-0004-5057-1458
Uzair Akram Baqai Institute of Health Management Sciences, Baqai Medical University, Karachi, Pakistan Author https://orcid.org/0009-0006-3769-7798

Abstract

Background of the study: Poor oral hygiene has been associated with systemic health problems, including infective endocarditis, especially in socioeconomically deprived populations. This study explores the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of low-income groups in Sindh, Pakistan, regarding oral hygiene and their relationship with the risk of endocarditis.
Methodology: A stratified purposive sampling method was used to collect data from 176 adults in various districts of Sindh through a structured questionnaire. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was used to explore the relationships between oral hygiene behaviors, knowledge, and the risk of endocarditis. In detail, key barriers, such as access to dental care, oral health literacy, and economic challenges, were examined.
Results: The study findings indicated significant knowledge and practice gaps in oral health, with a strong association between poor oral hygiene and increased risk of endocarditis. Low socioeconomic status was a critical determinant that underscored the need for accessible dental care and public health education. Targeted interventions, such as oral health awareness campaigns and affordable dental services, showed promise in reducing oral infections and systemic health risks.
Conclusions: The current research draws attention to the urgent need for the mitigation of endocarditis by tackling oral health disparities among vulnerable populations. Improving oral hygiene practices and systemic health outcomes among the low-income population in Sindh will be achievable through community-based programs and interventions that are designed accordingly.

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