Measuring oral health from a public health perspective.
The paper aims to analyse measures of oral health-related quality of life (OHQOL) from a Public Health perspective. Twenty-two measures were analysed conceptually as to their mirroring of the Public Health principles: empowerment, participation, holism and equity. Elements of empowerment were found in connection with application of the measures. Participation was found in using lay opinions during development in 12 measures. All measures analysed had elements of a holistic approach so far that they were not wholly biological. Two measures captured positive health effects. Measures were available for all ages, various languages and populations, an element of equity. No measure was wholly compatible with Public Health. They were based on a utilitarian theory not in full accordance with modern health promotion. There is a need to develop measures that more obviously capture the positive aspects of health and health as a process, as well as the personal perspective of oral health.
Johansson
Gunvi
G
School of Social and Health Sciences, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Swede. gunvi.johansson@hos.hh.se
Söderfeldt
Björn
B
Gerdin
Elisabeth Wärnberg
EW
Halling
Arne
A
Axtelius
Björn
B
Ostberg
Anna-Lena
AL
D000367:Age Factors; D006293:Health Promotion; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D009909:Oral Health; D011634:Public Health; D011788:Quality of Life; D012649:Self Concept; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors