Oral Hygiene Awareness Among Transgenders in Twin Cities of Pakistan

Abstract

An Individual’s oral health condition is related to awareness of the practices that can enhance oral hygiene. The transgender community is less privileged in society.  As a result, they may be more vulnerable to oral diseases due to limited access to healthcare and adverse living conditions. The aim of this study was to assess the oral hygiene awareness among the trans-genders residing in Rawalpindi and Islamabad (Twin cities). Material and methods: A questionnaire-based descriptive cross-sectional was conducted on the transgender community residing in the twin cities. The study questionnaire was translated in Urdu language and distributed among trans-genders in person. The convenience sampling technique was used to recruit the participants. Data analysis was conducted by utilizing SPSS version 26. Results: A total of 73 individuals (Rawalpindi=60.3%, Islamabad=39.7%) participated in the study out of the 100 that were approached. Most of the participants (52%) were from the 25-34 years age group. The relationship between oral hygiene awareness and age/city was found to be statistically insignificant. Only 26% transgenders used toothpaste for teeth cleaning and 70% did not use any adjunctive aid for teeth cleaning. Moreover, 98.7% of the participants noted that they are using either betel nut, pan, or tobacco. Conclusion: The study participants were aware of the basic oral hygiene requirements; however, their oral hygiene practices were to be well below the established standards. It is recommended that public and private sector welfare organizations should fund and organize oral health promotion programs among the transgender communities. Moreover, healthcare professionals should be encouraged and trained to deal with the transgender community with empathy and care.