| Title: |
A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis on the Epidemiology of Early Childhood Caries in Nigeria |
| Authors: |
Okolo, Chizoba; Aborisade, Adetayo; Oguchi, Chika; Alalade, Olusegun; Adeyemo, Yewande |
| Publisher Information: |
Springer Science and Business Media LLC |
| Publication Year: |
2024 |
| Description: |
Background Early Childhood Caries (ECC) is a significant oral health issue affecting children under six years old. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and distribution of ECC in Nigeria through a systematic review and meta-analysis. Methods A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases for studies on ECC prevalence in Nigeria. The Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist was used to assess study quality. A random-effects model was employed to calculate pooled prevalence estimates and mean dmft scores. Subgroup analyses and meta-regression were performed to explore sources of heterogeneity. Results Twenty-three studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising 7,362 participants. The pooled ECC prevalence in Nigeria was 17% (95% CI: 11% – 24%), with significant heterogeneity (I 2 = 97%). Subgroup analyses revealed variations across geopolitical zones and study settings. The pooled mean dmft score was 0.44 (95% CI: 0.24–0.74). Age group and gender showed minimal impact on ECC prevalence. Conclusion With a 17% prevalence rate, ECC remains a significant public health concern in Nigeria. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions, standardized national surveys, and further research into region-specific risk factors to address ECC effectively. |
| Document Type: |
other/unknown material |
| Language: |
unknown |
| DOI: |
10.21203/rs.3.rs-5006258/v1 |
| Availability: |
http://dx.doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-5006258/v1; https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-5006258/v1; https://www.researchsquare.com/article/rs-5006258/v1.html |
| Rights: |
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ |
| Accession Number: |
edsbas.584D53FE |
| Database: |
BASE |