Gender issues and oral health in elderly Indians

Objectives: Gender disparity in health and diseases is increasingly being recognised. Therefore, it was decided to investigate gender differences in the elderly subjects (60+years) from a community-based study. The study was undertaken to evaluate the oral health status and treatment needs of urban and rural elderly and to study the impact of socio-demographic variables on them. Study design: An urban area in South Delhi and its adjoining four villages was selected. A modified WHO-Oral Health Survey proforma and Rup-Nagpal's scale were used to record oral health and socio-demographic data respectively. In addition, diet pattern (vegetarian/ non-vegetarian) and body mass index (BMI) were also recorded. Chi square test and p values were calculated for each of the studied parameters. Results: There were significant differences for socio-economic status, literacy level, marital and family status between elderly men and women (p < 0.0001). A higher percentage of elderly women were vegetarian and overweight than elderly men (p < 0.01) However. there were few differences found in the, prevalence of dental caries, periodontal diseases and edentulousness between male and female elderly (p > 0.01). The only difference found was in the evidence of previous dental treatment received. Elderly men had a higher percentage of filled teeth and denture wear compared to elderly women (p < 0.01). Conclusions: Women's oral health is significantly influenced by social, economic and psychological factors.