Prevalence of Xerostomia in Healthy Individuals

Abstract

Objective:To determine the prevalence of Xerostomia in apparently healthy individuals. Methodology:This prospective cross sectional study was conducted on persons accompanying the patients at Medical and Dental OPD of Muhammad Medical College, Mirpurkhas in collaboration with Liaquat University of Health Sciences (LUMHS) Jamshoro from January 2016 to July 2016. 156 patients visited and the accompanying persons were 3015. Only adults were included and 915 patients consented to participate. Standardized questionnaire regarding demographic details, systemic diseases, use of drugs, and cigarette smoking was filled. Fox questionnaire was used to confirm Xerostomia. The data collected was analyzed by SPSS version 22. Qualitative variables were expressed as number and in percentage. Results: Among nine hundred and fifteen participants, age range was 21-65 years. The mean age was 47±7.6years, those above 30 years were 813 (88.9%), whereas under 30years were 102 (11.1%). Xerostomia was more common in persons above 30 years and difference between two age groups was statistically significant. In our study, 317 (34.6%) gave history of tobacco consumption as cigarettes or gutka or pan. Out of 915 patients, 508 (55.5%) had systemic diseases. Out of these 508 only 387 (76.1%) were taking medications. A significant association of Xerostomia with drug intake was seen. Conclusion: The frequency of Xerostomia in apparently healthy subjects was high and alarming. Predisposing factors were age, female gender, systemic disease, use of drug and tobacco consumption.