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. 2022 Jul 26;19(15):9104.
doi: 10.3390/ijerph19159104.

The Indigenous Adolescent Oral Health Partnership Study: A Co-Design Study Protocol

Affiliations

The Indigenous Adolescent Oral Health Partnership Study: A Co-Design Study Protocol

Zac Calvin et al. Int J Environ Res Public Health. .

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.

Keywords: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; Australian; adolescent; co-design; oral health.

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Conflict of interest statement

Susan Cartwright is employed by Colgate-Palmolive.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Phases of the Indigenous Adolescent Oral Health Partnership Study.

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