Avaliação do letramento em saúde em dados faltantes de estudo epidemiológico em Goianá/MG

Abstract

The presence of missing data in epidemiological studies, especially those based on self-reported questionnaires, poses a significant challenge. This study aimed to investigate the Oral Health Literacy (OHL) level of parents/guardians of 8 to 9-year-old children in Goianá, MG, who participated in a previous survey regarding their children's oral health-related habits and behaviors. The questionnaire from the Brazilian Association of Research Companies (ABEP) was utilized to assess participants' socioeconomic profile and educational background, while the Brazilian Rapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Dentistry (BREALD-30) instrument was employed to measure OHL. Descriptive analysis was conducted using absolute and relative frequencies for categorical variables and mean values, standard deviation, minimum, and maximum values for numerical variables. Spearman's correlation test was employed to explore the relationship between OHL, educational level, and socioeconomic status of participants. The results indicated a moderate level of OHL among participants who completed the incomplete questionnaire. However, no significant correlation was found between OHL, educational level, and socioeconomic status of the volunteers. This study underscores the necessity of adopting more comprehensive approaches not only to understand oral health literacy but also for future interventions, aiming to enhance oral health in vulnerable communities.