The Indigenous Adolescent Oral Health Partnership Study: a co-design study protocol

Zac Calvin, John Skinner, Yvonne Dimitropoulos, Gabriela Stan, Julie Satur, Susan Cartwright, Richard P. Widmer, Tiarnee Schafer, Rachel Williams, Woosung Sohn, Sarah Raphael, Bradley Christian, Carmen Parter, Lauren Blatchford, Boe Rambaldini, Stephanie R. Partridge, Elyse Cain, Kylie Gwynne

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)
91 Downloads (Pure)

Abstract

Background: in this protocol we outline a method of working alongside Aboriginal communities to learn about and facilitate improvement in the oral health habits in Aboriginal adolescents. By facilitating positive oral health in Aboriginal adolescents, we hope to achieve lifelong improvement in oral health and general wellbeing.

Methods: this paper outlines a co-design methodology through which researchers and Aboriginal communities will work together to create a custom oral healthcare program aimed at Aboriginal adolescents. Researchers, a youth advisory group, Aboriginal community-controlled health services and three regional NSW communities will together devise an oral health strategy focused on five components: application of topical fluoride, increasing water consumption, improving nutrition, daily toothbrushing, and enhancing social and emotional wellbeing. Capacity building is a key outcome of this program.

Discussion: as the gap in health status between Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal people remains wide, it is clear that new approaches and attitudes are needed in Aboriginal public health research. This protocol is representative of this shifting approach; giving power to Aboriginal communities who seek to have sovereignty and self-determination over their healthcare.

Trial registration: TRN: ISRCTN15496753 Date of registration: 20 October 2021.

Original languageEnglish
Article number9104
Pages (from-to)1-11
Number of pages11
JournalInternational Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
Volume19
Issue number15
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 26 Jul 2022

Bibliographical note

Copyright the Author(s) 2022. Version archived for private and non-commercial use with the permission of the author/s and according to publisher conditions. For further rights please contact the publisher.

Keywords

  • co-design
  • oral health
  • adolescent
  • Australian
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander

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