Patients Perceived Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Dental Abscess Management in Periurban District, Ghana.

Background: Seeking conventional oral health care for various dental conditions is still a challenge for many worldwide and poses a global public health challenge. It is not until the individual starts experiencing pain and disfigurement of the facial profile that they seek dental care after many self-care interventions have failed. This study sought to determine perceived knowledge, attitude, practice, and satisfaction of dental abscess management among dental abscess patients (DAPs). Methods: The research used a cross-sectional design to collect data from patients who visited the Dental Department of Effiduase Government Hospital with dental abscess from 6 May 2020-27 August 2020. A total sample size of 82 was selected from a population of 377. About 76 DAPs who met the inclusion criteria and consented to participate were interviewed. Results: About 57% of respondents believed that dental caries caused their abscess. However, 46% sought medical treatment between 0 and 2 weeks after the onset of their dental abscess, while the rest did that after 3 weeks. Close to 64.5% have ever had episode of abscess before current one which they managed with alternative treatment. About 95% of respondents saw the hospital as a good place for dental care. A significant association was established between patient's level of education and influence to seek orthodox treatment (p = 0.015, Fisher's exact test (FET)). Another significant association was established between patient's level of education and the kind of alternative treatment they used (p = 0.016, Fisher's exact test (FET)). Conclusions: Most DAPs believe that dental caries was the main cause of dental abscess. DAPs sought late medical care, after they have tried a failed alternative treatment. DAPs expressed satisfaction with reception, equipment and materials, and medicines used. Majority of the patients rated the cost of dental care in the facility as affordable.

Pneumonia in Ghana-a need to raise the profile.

Despite the high mortality, pneumonia retains a relatively low profile among researchers, funders and policymakers. Here we reflect on the problems and priorities of pneumonia in Ghana, briefly review the evidence base and reflect upon in-person discussions between Southampton-based authors MGH and JB and academic, clinical and policy colleagues in Ghana. The discussions took place in Accra in August 2017.