Title: A Comparative Analysis of Oral Health Disparities Among Caucasians and African Americans with Intellectual Disabilities

Abstract: 

Oral disease, often categorized as a silent epidemic, can affect several vulnerable population groups in the United States (US) (Como et al., 2019). An often-overlooked demographic in the United States (US) when it comes to poor oral health, oral disease, and oral health disparities are people with intellectual or physical disabilities and some racial groups (WHO,2022). Despite current programs and intervention strategies established, inequalities still exist for individuals with Intellectual or Developmental disabilities (IDD). This study aims to conduct a comparative analysis of current literature describing oral health issues among Caucasians and African Americans with IDD in the US with a focus on identifying disparities to better understand them and interventions in place to address the disparities. This review utilized the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) using the checklist and flow diagram to existing research for oral

health disparities and interventions for IDD, particularly comparing the differing racial groups (Page et al., 2021). This analysis assessed 15 peer-reviewed articles. The articles assessed the oral health disparities and intervention programs in the United States for individuals with IDD. Overall, this review identified the barriers to optimal oral health, intervention programs, and recommendations to decrease oral health disparities. In conclusion, the available research and data suggest that disparities and barriers persist in individuals with IDD. Despite the limited research comparing African Americans and Caucasians with IDD, this study shows that minority groups often face undue disparities and barriers in healthcare particularly in dental care. Many oral health disparities can be greatly improved for this vulnerable population through population-based intervention and strategies.

Chair: Dr. Adrienne King