Assessment of Routine Medical and Dental Examination among Adult in Tema, Community 20

Abstract

Introduction: Life expectancy and prosperity have risen over the past 5 decades globally, and are expected to continue to rise. The relevance of routine medical and dental examination cannot be overemphasized with an increase in advocacy as individuals are encouraged to undergo these examinations regularly especially among the young adult. This is to increase the prevention of disease rather than curative measures. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted among adult residents in Community 20, Tema. 216 respondents were randomly sampled using interview administered questionnaire. Determination of routine medical and dental examinations and reasons will be analysed using Chi square test. Weighted mean will be used to determine the level of perceived importance of medical and dental examination. Results: A total of 68.1% and 31.9% of the respondents have ever undergone medical and dental examination respectively. The respondents who had ever undergone medical and dental examination for personal reasons constituted 35.4% and 55.1% respectively. Physical medical and dental examinations encourage adults to be health conscious was ranked highest with a weighted mean of 3.78. Discussion: Increased routine medical and dental examinations were seen among respondents above 50 years, males, higher education, high income and unmarried people. Low examinations were associated with health insurance coverage. Majority of the respondents have had medical and dental examinations done a year ago and for personal reasons. Most of the respondents indicated that physical medical and dental examination as very important.Conclusion: The significance of routine examinations is to reduce the prevalence of chronic disease