Document Type
Article
Publication Date
6-2025
Publisher
Wiley
Source Publication
Periodontology 2000
Source ISSN
0906-6713
Original Item ID
DOI: 10.1111/prd.12617
Abstract
Periodontal diseases, a group of complex conditions marked by an excessive immune response and periodontal tissue destruction, are a global health concern. Since 1990, the incidence of these diseases has doubled, with Western sub-Saharan Africa experiencing the highest burden. Accurate diagnosis and case identification are crucial for understanding the etiology, features of disease, research, treatment and prevention. Modern perspectives on periodontal disease classification are based on commonality among those affected. However, current literature is often plagued by methodological inconsistencies and focused on disease mechanisms in European populations. Health inequalities in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) are exacerbated by these challenges, with sub-Saharan Africa, and Nigeria specifically, facing unique difficulties such as clinical personnel shortages and limited research infrastructure. This review explored disparities in periodontal disease research, care and outcomes in African populations. We highlighted these disparities and identified the factors contributing to inequities in periodontal health outcomes. We further demonstrated the critical need for inclusive and equitable healthcare and research practices tailored to the unique challenges faced by diverse populations and regions with limited resources. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring that advancements in healthcare are accessible to all, thereby improving global oral health and general health.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Olujitan, Mojisola; Ayanbadejo, Patricia O.; Umeizudike, Kehinde; Oyapero, Afolabi; Okunseri, Christopher; and Butali, Azeez, "Periodontal Diseases in Africa" (2025). School of Dentistry Faculty Research and Publications. 600.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/dentistry_fac/600
Comments
Published version. Periodontology 2000, Vol. 98, No. 1 (2025, June): 45-55. DOI. © 2025 The Authors, published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs License, which permits use and distribution in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited, the use is non-commercial and no modifications or adaptations are made.