Oral health promotion for drug and alcohol users

Project # 1: Promoting the oral health of drug and alcohol users: A needs analysis. 

Aims or brief descriptions
The oral health of substance abusers (specifically, those affected by drugs and alcohol) has been identified as problematic by many health service providers. A project was established in conjunction with DHSV, the Department of Human Services and other key stakeholder groups to develop an intervention to address the problems of this high risk group. Initial investigation showed that the needs are complex and diverse and that that there is little evidence to support approaches to oral health for this group. This study was designed to establish an understanding of the oral health needs and possible approaches to promoting the oral health of drug and alcohol users.
Findings
Research has been undertaken to investigate the existing evidence base for oral and general health promotion approaches, consult with health service providers to identify opportunities and barriers to action and with consumers via focus group interview. The outcome of this study is to provide recommendations for a pilot project to commence in 2006 to promote the oral health of drug and alcohol users.
Involved organisations
Bachelor of Oral Health Science Student Research Project,  The University of Melbourne
Tammie Dennis,
Alana Lyon,
Quyhn Pham,
Kate Sifonius 

Contact person for further information

Dr Julie Satur
Senior Lecturer, Head Oral Health Therapy
School of Dental Science, The University of Melbourne
720 Swanston Street, Melbourne, 3000, Australia
Phone direct: 03 9341 1530
Email:  juliegs@unimelb.edu.au