Oral Health Education and Message Framing Effect on Oral Health Status of Refugees in Egypt

Effect of Message Framing Through M-Health on Oral Health Conditions and Oral Health Related Quality of Life Among Refugees in Alexandria, Egypt: A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial

Refugees, facing forced displacement and often exposed to traumatic experiences, represent a vulnerable population with unique healthcare needs. Oral health is considered a prominent factor that contributes to quality of life.

Therefore, this study aim at assessing the effect of message framing on enhancing oral health practices in a group of refugees in Alexandria, Egypt. A three-arm cluster randomized controlled clinical trial will compare a gain-framed mobile text messages group, a loss-framed mobile text messages group, and a control group. The primary outcome is the improvement in oral health practices measured by changes in dental plaque and secondary outcome is to assess change in oral health-related quality of life. In addition, oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices of refugees will be assessed.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Refugees older than 18 years old.
• From Arabic speaking countries.
• Has been resident in Alexandria, Egypt for at least 6 months.
• Having mobile phones to receive text messages.
• Agrees to participate in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Planning to move away during 1 year study period.
• Participating in any kind of oral health education and promotion programs.