Maternal Periodontal health and Risk of Premature Birth in Uganda

Several studies reveal pregnant women have higher prevalence of gingivitis than their non-pregnant peers. However, it is starting in 1996 that research investigating a relationship between a mother’s poor periodontal health and pregnancy outcomes have been conducted with contradictory findings. A number of studies report periodontal disease as an independent risk factor for preterm deliveries (<37 weeks) low birth weights (<2500gms) and pre-eclampsia. The pathogenesis is explained as direct and/or indirect interference of circulating microorganism or inflammatory mediators impacting the foetal-placental unit.

Few studies have been conducted on the oral disease occurrence, levels and determinants in women of sub-Saharan Africa. On the other hand, it is reported that 95.6% of low birth weight babies are born in the developing world. Furthermore, low birth weight and premature births contribute to the unacceptably high neonatal mortality and morbidity rates in the Ugandan population.  It is stated that low birth weight babies are 13 more times more likely to die than heavier babies. This suggests a health concern for which all possible aetiologies ought to be identified. Thus, investigating oral disease as a modifiable risk factor justified this study.

 I am presenting the findings of a longitudinal study of 593 women and children in Mbale, Eastern Uganda. Pregnant women were interviewed and clinically assessed under field conditions. Then a follow-up anthropological assessment of their infants was conducted. In this study, wasting status at three weeks was worse in infants whose mothers had periodontal problems.