The Prevalence and Determinant Factors of Oral Halitosis in Northwest Ethiopia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Oral halitosis, unpleasant or offensive odor to others, has become a major health concern among the general population, ranking the third most common reason for seeking a dentist behind dental caries and periodontal disease. Even though there have been repeated cases of halitosis in Ethiopia, there is no documented evidence.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of halitosis in Northwest Ethiopia and to examine the relationship between halitosis and sociodemographic factors, oral habits, and health practices.

Methods: From December 2019 to March 30, 2020, a hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted. A systematic random sampling method was used to select study participants. Following informed consent, sociodemographic characteristics were collected using structured questionnaires, and two qualified dental surgeons performed the oral examination. The organoleptic test was used to assess the presence of halitosis.

Results: Six hundred sixty-one people took part in the study, with a mean age of 30.0 ±14.76 years. The prevalence of oral halitosis was 44.2% (95% CI: 40.39-47.96) among the study participants. Participants with no formal education were more prone to oral halitosis. Oral halitosis was common in students (18.5%), low-income individuals (22.2%), rural residents (12.3%), mouth breathers (19.1%), and participants with poor oral hygiene practices (15.3%). Independent factors of halitosis included rural residency (AOR=1.40, 95% CI: 1.18, 1.67), low economic status (AOR=1.81, 95% CI: 1.06,3.09), poor tooth brushing habit (AOR=1.85 (1.31, 2.61), smoking (AOR=2.69 (1.39, 5.21) and dental caries (AOR=8.74 (5.57, 13.71).

Conclusion: The prevalence of oral halitosis was 44.2% among the study participants. Rural residency, low monthly income, poor tooth-brushing habit, smoking, and dental caries were independent factors of halitosis.