Health beliefs and their association with oral health among Mong ethnic primary schoolchildren in Lao Cai Province, Vietnam, 2025
Main Article Content
Abstract
A cross-sectional study was conducted among 251 Mong ethnic primary schoolchildren aged 7 - 11 years old at San Sa Ho Primary School, Sa Pa, Lao Cai Province, in 2025 to examine the associations between Health Belief Model (HBM) constructs, oral health behaviors, and gingival status. Data were collected through structured interviews using HBM-based scales and clinical assessment of gingivitis according to the Gingival Index (GI). Students demonstrated relatively high levels of perceived susceptibility and perceived severity regarding oral diseases, while high perceived barriers and low self-efficacy were prevalent. These constructs were significantly associated with inappropriate oral health behaviors and gingivitis (p < 0.05). These findings underscore the central role of behavioral determinants in translating health beliefs into preventive actions and suggest prioritizing interventions that reduce practical barriers and strengthen self-efficacy in mountainous communities.
Article Details
Keywords
Health Belief Model, gingivitis, oral health behavior, primary schoolchildren, Mong ethnic group
References
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