Perception and knowledge about oral health of caregivers of children with microcephaly

ABSTRACT Objective: To understand the perception and knowledge of caregivers of children with microcephaly on oral health care. Methods: This is a qualitative study with a research-action method, in which semi-structured interviews - diagnostic and evaluative - and oral health workshop were adopted as techniques for data collection and intervention.The study was conducted in a group aimed at caregivers of children with microcephaly, offered in the public health network of the capital Maceió, Alagoas. Nine women caring for children with microcephaly participated in the study. The participants statements were transcribed and, through the thematic analysis, the data was categorized and discussed. Results: The main caregivers of children with microcephaly were mothers and grandmothers. Of these, 45% had incomplete secondary education. Most reported self-care with their impaired oral health, were unaware of the risk of transmission of dental caries-related bacteria, did not offer exclusive breastfeeding until 6 months of age, and offered artificial milk to the children with sugared and farinaceous milk. Conclusion: For caregivers of children with microcephaly, oral health care is a less valuable topic when compared to other demands, both at home and other physical treatments. Responsibility for care is aimed at the maternal figures, which makes it difficult for them to take care of their own oral health. Educational action on oral health minimized doubts and fragilities for the self-care and care of children related to oral health.摘要 研究目的：明晰小头畸形（microcephaly）儿童照护者对口腔健康照护的认知水平与掌握情况。 研究方法：本研究为采用行动研究法的质性研究，以半结构化诊断性与评估性访谈、口腔健康工作坊作为数据收集与干预手段。研究在阿拉戈斯州首府马塞约（Maceió）的公共卫生网络所服务的小头畸形儿童照护者群体中开展，共有9名女性照护者参与本研究。对参与者的陈述进行转录后，通过主题分析法对数据进行分类与讨论。 研究结果：小头畸形儿童的主要照护者为母亲与祖母；其中45%的参与者仅完成了初中及以下教育。多数受访者自述自身存在口腔健康问题且需开展自我照护，对龋齿相关细菌的传播风险一无所知，未做到在患儿6个月龄前实施纯母乳喂养，且为患儿喂食添加糖类与谷类成分的人工乳。 研究结论：相较于家庭照料与其他物理治疗等各类需求，小头畸形儿童照护者对口腔健康照护的重视程度相对较低。照护责任主要由母亲群体承担，这使得她们难以兼顾自身的口腔健康维护。口腔健康相关的教育干预行动有效缓解了照护者在自身口腔照护及儿童口腔照护方面的疑惑与认知短板。