The Efficacy of a Multi-Theory-Based Peer-Led Intervention on Oral Health Among Hong Kong Adolescents: A Cluster-Randomized Controlled Trial.
J Adolesc Health 2022;
70:267-274. [PMID:
34521576 DOI:
10.1016/j.jadohealth.2021.08.001]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE
This study aimed to investigate the effects of a peer-led oral health intervention based on the Health Belief Model and the Social Cognitive Theory on improving oral health among Hong Kong adolescents.
METHODS
The study adopted a cluster-randomized controlled trial design, and 1184 students in 12 schools were randomized to intervention or control groups. After baseline assessment, the intervention group received a peer-led theory-based oral health intervention, while the control group received booklets for oral health promotion. Self-reported brushing and flossing, Health Belief Model/Social Cognitive Theory constructs, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) were measured at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months, and dental plaque accumulation and caries status were measured at baseline and 12 months. The trial was registered at https://www.clinicaltrials.gov (NCT03694496).
RESULTS
Brushing, flossing, and OHRQoL improved more in the experimental group than in the control group at the 6-month follow-up compared with baseline (p < .001). The mean gain score difference was .81 for brushing, .47 for flossing, and -2.51 for OHRQoL. At the 12-month follow-up, the mean gain score of brushing frequency, plaque index, caries status, and OHRQoL were .18, -.28, -.32, and -2.79, respectively, which all sustained the significant difference (p < .001).
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings suggested that the Health Belief Model combined with Social Cognitive Theory in a peer-led intervention is effective to increase self-reported brushing frequency and improve oral hygiene status and OHRQoL among adolescents.
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