Abstract
BACKGROUND: The literature has shown the relationship between maternal periodontitis and complications associated with pregnancy. Thus, prevalence estimates and risk factor identification for periodontitis during pregnancy in Rwanda are paramount. AIM: The aim of the current study was to determine the prevalence of periodontitis and identify related risk factors among pregnant women in Rwanda. METHODS: A cross sectional study was conducted to determine the prevalence of periodontal diseases in a convenience sample of 400 pregnant women in the Southern Province of Rwanda. A logistic regression analysis using a hierarchical approach was performed to assess the risk factors for periodontal disease. Socio demographic factors were put in the regression model first followed by a second step for other potential factors. RESULTS: The overall prevalence of periodontitis was 60.5%. Multivariable logistic regression showed that age OR=2.48 (95% CI. 1.18-5.22), education level OR=82.15 (95% CI. 8.21-822.11), socio economic status OR=2.28 (95% CI. 1.49-6.62), employment status OR=7.3 (95% CI. 1.38-38.74, and tobacco use OR=6.89 (95% CI. 1.78-60.65) were significantly associated with periodontitis. CONCLUSION: Periodontitis appears to be a common problem among pregnant women in Rwanda. Risk factor screening could help identify pregnant women at higher risk of periodontal disease.