Promoting oral health for people with cardiovascular disease : a mixed-methods study to inform the development of a nurse-led Cardiovascular Oral Health (CARDIOH) program

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally. There is now strong evidence showing that periodontal (gum) disease is linked to atherosclerotic CVD, with inflammation as the common underlying factor. Consequently, international consensus statements recommend increasing awareness among clinicians and patients about the link between periodontal disease and CVD and including oral health screening and education in the cardiac setting. Despite these recommendations, there is limited information about the oral health perceptions, knowledge, and practices of patients with CVD. Further, the current practices of cardiac care clinicians in this area are largely unknown, particularly in the Australian context. The overall aim of this mixed-methods study was to explore oral healthcare for people with CVD in Australia to inform the development of a nurse-led cardiovascular oral health program. This thesis is presented as a series of five published papers. The study findings revealed that most participants (cardiac care clinicians and patients) were unaware of the relationship between oral health and CVD. This study has provided valuable insight into this neglected aspect of cardiac care, particularly in Australia. It has shown that despite the current evidence and recommendations there is limited focus on oral healthcare promotion by cardiac care clinicians. Not surprisingly, patients with CVD are not receiving adequate information in this area, which is concerning, as this has been identified as a key influencing factor for people with CVD in seeking dental care, along with accessible and affordable dental care. A preventative nurse-led model of oral healthcare promotion services, where cardiac nurses are equipped in providing oral health information, screening and referrals to appropriate dental care services is required, so that patients with CVD receive appropriate information about oral healthcare as well as timely access to dental care.

Date of Award	2020
Original language	English