# Incorporating basic periodontal screening into antenatal care services provided in Rwanda: A policy brief

## TL;DR

This policy brief recommends adding periodontal screening to antenatal care in Rwanda to reduce preterm births linked to gum disease.

## Contribution

The study identifies a high prevalence of periodontitis among pregnant women in Rwanda and its strong link to preterm births.

## Key findings

- Periodontitis is associated with a six-fold increased risk of preterm delivery in Rwanda.
- 60% of pregnant women in Rwanda have periodontitis.
- Nurses in antenatal clinics lack sufficient knowledge about gum disease.

## Abstract

Preterm birth, which is child delivery before 37 weeks of pregnancy, is the primary cause of perinatal mortality worldwide. Preterm birth remains a major public health challenge in Rwanda, affecting approximately 13.8% of birth. The World Health Organization estimates that 15 million babies are born prematurely each year. While the association between periodontitis and preterm deliveries is increasingly recognized, little is known about this link in Rwanda. This policy brief aims to bridge this knowledge gap by presenting the findings of a recent study investigating the prevalence of periodontitis among pregnant women in Rwanda and its association with preterm deliveries. This policy brief also aims to inform and guide decision making towards incorporating periodontal screening into the antenatal care package in Rwanda. This has the potential to improve pregnancy outcomes and contribute to improved oral health in the future.

Contemporary evidence has shown a six-fold increased risk of preterm delivery for women with periodontitis in Rwanda, with a concerningly high prevalence (60%) among pregnant women. Additionally, nurses working in antenatal clinics displayed insufficient knowledge about gum disease.

The adoption of basic periodontal screening within existing antenatal care packages is recommended. This, coupled with nurse training and public awareness campaigns, can empower women and healthcare professionals to prioritize oral health for better pregnancy outcomes.

Integrating periodontal screening into antenatal care has the potential to significantly reduce preterm deliveries and contribute to a healthier future generation in Rwanda.