Relationship between the Levels of Awareness and Knowledge of Periodontitis in Diabetic Patients in Maharashtra Region

Abstract

This study delves into the symbiotic relationship between diabetes mellitus (DM) and periodontitis, shedding light on the reciprocal impact these prevalent conditions have on each other. Acknowledging diabetes as a grade modifier in the latest periodontitis classification underscores the active role of diabetes in shaping the severity and progression of periodontal disease. With 34.5% of participants identified as diabetic patients with periodontitis in the Maharashtra region, the urgency of addressing awareness and knowledge gaps within this specific population becomes evident. The study's core finding reveals a compelling inverse correlation between awareness/knowledge levels and the clinical periodontal status. This suggests that individuals with lower awareness and knowledge levels exhibit more severe periodontitis, emphasizing the potential role of education in influencing disease progression, especially in the context of diabetes. The lack of awareness observed among both diabetic and nondiabetic patients underscores the need for targeted educational initiatives, urging a comprehensive and personalized approach to patient education in clinical practice. The implications extend beyond oral health, advocating for a paradigm shift in healthcare towards a holistic model that integrates oral health into the broader landscape of systemic health. This study serves as a compass, guiding future research and interventions to bridge the knowledge gap within vulnerable populations. It calls for a nuanced exploration of specific elements in dental health education that resonate with diabetic patients, understanding the long-term impact of improved awareness on clinical outcomes, and considering cultural and socioeconomic factors in shaping knowledge levels. As we navigate the complex interplay of diabetes and periodontitis, the insights from this study pave the way for a more informed and patient-centric approach to managing these intertwined health conditions.