Improving oral health practices among refugees in Egypt through text messages
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
This study is testing if sending different types of text messages can help refugees in Egypt improve their oral health habits and overall dental care.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 510 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Alexandria University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Alexandria) |
| Trial ID | NCT06649760 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study assesses how different types of mobile text messages can enhance oral health practices among refugees in Alexandria, Egypt. It employs a three-arm cluster randomized controlled design, comparing the effects of gain-framed messages, loss-framed messages, and a control group on participants' oral health. The primary outcome is the improvement in oral health practices, specifically changes in dental plaque, while secondary outcomes include the assessment of oral health-related quality of life and knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding oral health. The study targets a vulnerable population with unique healthcare needs, aiming to improve their overall quality of life through better oral health.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Arabic-speaking refugees over 18 years old who have been residing in Alexandria for at least six months and have mobile phones.
Not a fit: Patients who are planning to move away during the study period or are already participating in other oral health education programs may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve the oral health practices and quality of life for refugees in Egypt.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of using message framing in this context may be novel, similar studies have shown success in improving health behaviors through mobile messaging.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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.
Where this trial is running
Alexandria
- Caritas — Alexandria, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dina Attia, PhD student
- Email: dina.ali@alexu.edu.eg
- Phone: +20 12 80914529
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.