Correlation of socioeconomic, nutritional, and hematological status in early childhood caries among pre-schoolers-a case-control study

Background: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a widespread dental disease influenced by diet, nutritional status, and socioeconomic factors. Prevalence varies globally, with high rates in East Asia and India. There is limited research existing regarding ECC's link to nutritional assessments (e.g., BMI, biochemical indicators) and low iron levels and anemia. Psychosocial evaluations, such as socioeconomic status (SES), remain underutilized. This study compares these relationships among preschoolers in the Raichur district. Methods: The study involved 296 preschool children (2-5 years) equally divided into those with and without ECC. A trained pedodontist conducted clinical oral exams using Gruebbel’s deft index, with a deft score ≥1 indicating ECC. Nutritional status was assessed via BMI measurements, while socioeconomic status was evaluated using Kuppuswamy’s 2023 SES Scale. Hematological assessment involved measuring hemoglobin levels using a digital meter after finger-prick blood collection. Standardized tools ensured accuracy in all assessments for comprehensive data collection. Results: This study indicated that comparing BMI, SES, and hemoglobin levels between caries-free and ECC-affected children revealed significant differences. Children at risk of being overweight had higher ECC prevalence, while normal-weight children were mostly caries-free (p=0.001). Lower SES was strongly associated with ECC, with 75.7% of ECC cases in the lower class, while upper-class children were largely caries-free. Hemoglobin analysis showed ECC linked to lower hemoglobin levels (7-9 g/dl), whereas caries-free children had higher levels (12 g/dl). Conclusions: The current study found that ECC is significantly linked to lower socioeconomic status, poor nutrition, and reduced hemoglobin levels among Raichur preschool children.