Maltese paediatric doctors’ knowledge attitudes and practice regarding prolonged breastfeeding and the prevalence of ECC

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate Maltese paediatricians’ knowledge and practice toward ECC with a focus on the role of PBF in ECC development. To increase awareness among frontline health professionals about ECC and its underlying factors, aiming to facilitate preventive measures and improve referral practices when necessary. To determine if age and years in practice have an influence on behaviours. Research question: How does the KAP (intervention) of paediatricians (Population) towards the potential correlation between ECC and PBF influence the prevention, diagnosis, and management of dental caries in young children (outcome)? Methodology: This study followed a quantitative cross-sectional design. The questionnaire was divided into 4 sections including demographics, knowledge and attitudes on deciduous teeth, breastfeeding practices, and paediatricians’ knowledge of the link between PBF and ECC. These close-ended questions were distributed to the MPDA via Google form twice obtaining a response rate of 48.7%. Results: Paediatricians in Malta lack knowledge of ECC prevention. Age and experience seemed to influence some behaviours; more experienced paediatricians more likely to provide advice on the cariogenic effects of night-time bottle feeding and perform preventive referrals. Only 25% of paediatricians always give OH advice and a mere 32.5% examine patients' teeth. Whilst 70% advise parents on the recommended duration of BF, 45% overlook its potential risks in relation to ECC prevention. Disagreement was shown over definitions such as PBF and generally accepted OH practices such as the onset of teeth brushing in children. Implication for practice: A need for collaboration between paediatricians and DPs. The incorporation of basic dental training regarding ECC prevention and OH safeguarding in the medical curricula. Awareness campaigns targeted at preventive rather than curative treatment.