Perceived racial discrimination, resilience and oral health behaviors of adolescents with immigrant backgrounds
Abstract
Unmet oral health needs remain a significant issue among immigrant adolescents, often exacerbated by experiences of racial discrimination. This study aimed to examine the associations between perceived discrimination and oral health behaviors in adolescents with immigrant backgrounds and explore the potential moderating role of resilience on this association. Participants were 12 to 18-year-old adolescents from immigrant backgrounds. Participants were recruited through nine community organizations using a
snowball sampling technique. 76% of participants reported experiencing discrimination, where discrimination was associated with poorer oral health behaviors. Resilience did not moderate the association.
Notes
Community organizations: n/a
Integration timeline: not defined
Key findings:
1) Out of 316 participants (median age of 15 years) 76% reported experiencing discrimination
2) Higher discrimination distress scores were associated with less likelihood of categorizing self-rated oral health as good
3) The odds of brushing teeth more than twice a day, as opposed to once a day, decreased when discrimination distress scores increased.
4) The odds of visiting the dentist for an urgent procedure instead of regular check-ups were higher with increased discrimination distress scores.
5) Resilience did not moderate the observed associations.
Key populations: Immigrant youth ages 12-18 years old in Edmonton
Key recommendations:
1) Develop comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of discrimination and its far-reaching effects.
2) Launch targeted awareness campaigns that educate the public on the harmful effects of racial discrimination, including the effects on health outcomes and oral health.
3) Distribute campaigns that champion diversity, promote inclusivity, and actively challenge racism.
4) Implement and rigorously enforce anti-discrimination policies, particularly within schools and healthcare institutions.
5) Create safe spaces where adolescents can voice their experiences of racism and receive the necessary interventions to mitigate the impact of discrimination on their health.
Future research / gaps identified:
1) Since this was a cross-sectional study, correlations are observed but causation cannot be observed.
2) Self-report measures may be affected by recall bias or desirability bias.
Location: Edmonton, AB
Open access: Yes