Abstract
This study aimed to elucidate the relationships among subjective symptoms of "difficulty chewing" and appetite and other oral symptoms, social environmental factors, and nutritional intake. A questionnaire was sent to all 70-year-olds in Niigata City, and 600 subjects were randomly selected from among those interested in study participation. The number of teeth present was counted for intraoral assessment. The questionnaire was used to assess subjective oral symptoms as well as the Health Practice Index (HPI) based on Breslow's seven health habits. A face scale was used for QOL assessment such as the daily general condition, and interactions with family and friends and the presence or absence of a spouse were assessed as social factors. The nutritional status was evaluated by a dietician using a semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire. The intake of total calories, carbohydrates, fats, and proteins was calculated using a formula. A blood sample was collected for the measurement of serum albumin, total protein, and total cholesterol levels. For statistical analysis, the relationships among each factor and appetite and chewing difficulty were examined by multiple logistic regression analysis. Subjects with a good appetite had satisfactory relationships with family and friends (odds ratio: 3.19, p=0.001), and a more favorable general condition (odds ratio: 2.07, p=0.036).
Subjects without difficulty chewing had more teeth (odds ratio: 1.04, p=0.001), no symptoms such as toothache (odds ratio: 0.16-0.58, p<0.0001-0.029), and satisfactory relationships with family and friends (odds ratio: 2.12, p=0.049).
In conclusion, appetite and chewing difficulty may be associated with social factors and the overall health, such as QOL.
