Impact of COVID-19 Lockdown on Dietary Behavior Related to Oral Health in Teesside, United Kingdom

Rachael England, Lawrence A. Nnyanzi and Fatemeh Vida Zohoori
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Rachael England: Teesside University, United Kingdom
Lawrence A. Nnyanzi: Teesside University, United Kingdom
Fatemeh Vida Zohoori: Teesside University, United Kingdom

European Journal of Dental and Oral Health, 2022, vol. 3, issue 1, 11-15

Abstract: Diet is well established as a significant etiological factor in oral diseases, particularly dental caries, and dental erosion. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the stay-at-home orders (lockdown) impacted people’s well-being. Emotional distress affects food preferences and consumption. Therefore, this study aimed to understand the dietary changes due to lockdown in Teesside and consequently its impact on oral health. Method: An online survey was developed based on the World Health Organization Adult Oral Health Survey. After obtaining ethical approval, the survey was distributed among residents ≥18y living in Teesside. The questions addressed dietary choices before and during the lockdown. Participants were also invited to a semi-structured interview to understand the influence of lockdown on dietary choices. Results: The frequency of consuming daily fresh fruit decreased by 3.2%. Participants consuming cakes and biscuits 2-3 times daily doubled from 5.4% to 10.6%. The daily consumption of sweets increased from 8.6% to 14.9%. Drinking alcohol four or more times per week increased from 7.1% to 12.5%. The most common explanations were reliance on online grocery shopping, lack of social interaction, and working from home. Conclusion: Support strategies are needed for communities to maintain healthy nutritional choices during periods of significant upheaval.

Keywords: COVID-19; diet; lockdown; oral diseases (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:epw:ejdent:v:3:y:2022:i:1:id:13129

DOI: 10.24018/ejdent.2022.3.1.129

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