Factors Related to Oral Health Care Behaviors among the Village Health Volunteers at the Service Area of Health Promoting Hospital, Na Kae District, Nakhon Phanom Province

Abstract

This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to investigate oral health behaviors and associated factors among village health volunteers (VHVs) in the catchment area of Health Promoting Hospitals in Na Kae district, Nakhon Phanom province. A total of 250 VHVs were selected using multi-stage sampling. Data were collected using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Fisher's Exact Test.

The results revealed statistically significant relationships (p-value <0.001, 0.011, 0.004, respectively) between predisposing factors (knowledge, attitudes, and health beliefs) and oral healthcare behaviors. The statistically significant relationships were also found between reinforcing factors (oral cleaning equipment and access to dental services) and oral healthcare behavior (p-value = 0.011 and 0.024, respectively). Similarly, statistically significant associations existed between enabling factors (receiving support from individuals and receiving information about oral healthcare) and oral healthcare behavior (p-value = 0.020, 0.003, respectively). Based on the research, it's recommended to equip VHVs with appropriate oral care tools, create a supportive network for knowledge sharing, and leverage digital platforms to facilitate communication and continuous learning.