Relationship Between Periodontal and Chronic Kidney Diseases- Opinions and Oral Health Practices of Nigerian Nephrologists

Background: Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global public health issue with hypertension and diabetes being the leading risk factors. Recent studies have demonstrated a bilateral link between. Objectives: To determine PD knowledge, attitudesMethods: This was a cross-sectional study in which 120 questionnaires were sent to Nephrologists and Nephrology trainees in Nigeria via their electronic mail between March and August 2015. The questionnaires had sections on socio-demography, knowledge of PD, PD link with CKD and otherResults: Fifty three nephrologists and trainees responded. Mean age was 38.7 ± 8.1 years with 41.5% in consultant cadre. About half (52.8%) had 1-5 years of clinical experience in nephrology. Oral health information was mostly from social media (52.8%) and the press (52.8%). Over 60% were knowledgeable about PD with positive attitudes towards periodontal care, but less than 50% knew PD to be a risk factor for CKD and poor glycemic control. Oral hygiene practices were unsatisfactory. Only 3.8% referred their patients with CKD to dentists CKD patients' oral cavity for signs of PD.Conclusions: This study has highlighted good PD knowledge and positive attitudes among nephrologists in Nigeria. However, knowledge of PD as a risk factor for CKD and poor glycemic control, oral hygiene and dental referral practices still fall short of expectation and hence needs to be improved upon.