Preparation and Evaluation of the Effectiveness of an Information Leaflet in Mothers for Prevention of Early Childhood Caries

Abstract Context: Early childhood caries (ECC) is a significant health problem worldwide. There is a general lack of knowledge concerning the ECC in the parents, particularly among mothers who are the primary source of knowledge for their kids. Aims: The aim of this study was to design an information leaflet on ECC and evaluate its effectiveness on the knowledge and attitude of the mothers. Settings and Design: The study design was an interventional study. Subjects and Methods: Study was divided into 3 phases. In the first phase, statements and illustrations on ECC were framed and its ill effects were reviewed. The second phase involved panel discussion assessment by RAND modified e-Delphi method. Leaflets were prepared based on the European Commission Guidelines. Content validity was checked using the Lawshe method. Readability was checked using Flesch formula. Reliability was checked using the Kuder Richardson formula 20 reliability test. In the third phase, the final Kannada-translated version of the leaflet was field tested among 30 mothers. A pre- to post-intervention questionnaire was used to evaluate the effect of intervention. Statistical Analysis Used: The statistical analysis was performed using Chi-square test and paired t -test. P <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The resultant intervention was an A4-sized triple folded six-faced ECC leaflet. The content Validity Ratio value was 0.7, which was acceptable. The Flesch readability scored 76, which was “fairly easy.” The Kuder Richardson formula 20 (KR-20) reliability coefficient equaled 0.8 which was reasonably reliable. Conclusions: The leaflet was effective in improving the knowledge and attitude of mothers about ECC and showed a high acceptance both from a panel of experts and mothers.