DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DENTISTRY

Background: Universal Health Coverage (UHC) aims to ensure that all individuals have access to needed health services of adequate quality without financial hardship. As future healthcare providers and health-system leaders, medical and dental students play an important role in advancing UHC through clinical practice, advocacy, and policy engagement. Objectives: This study assessed the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of Universal Health Coverage among medical and dental students of the University of Benin, Nigeria, and examined associated socio-demographic factors. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate medical and dental students using a structured, self-administered questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Descriptive statistics were presented as frequencies and percentages, while associations were tested using the Chi-square test at a 5% level of significance. Results: Most respondents demonstrated good knowledge of UHC (60.1%) and positive attitudes toward its principles (89.0%). However, perceptions revealed notable concerns regarding the financial sustainability of UHC and its potential impact on quality of care. Knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions were significantly more favorable among older students, those in higher academic levels, and those with formal exposure to health policy or UHC training (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Medical and dental students at the University of Benin generally possess good knowledge and positive attitudes toward Universal Health Coverage, but their perceptions reflect realistic concerns about implementation challenges within Nigeria’s health system. Strengthening early, structured, and policy-oriented UHC education during undergraduate training is essential to prepare future healthcare professionals to effectively contribute to achieving UHC in Nigeria.

Background: Halitosis, or bad breath, affects social interactions and quality of life. While prevalent globally, its determinants and impacts are under-researched in specific communities, such as traders in Nigeria.
Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, risk factors, and impacts of halitosis among traders at Oluku Market, Benin City, and assess their awareness and oral hygiene practices.
Methodology: A cross-sectional study involving 100 traders was conducted using structured questionnaires to collect data on sociodemographics, oral hygiene habits, awareness, and halitosis-related impacts. Statistical analyses included logistic regression to identify potential determinants.
Results: The prevalence of self-reported halitosis was 22%. Good oral hygiene practices were reported by 91% of respondents, but only 35% had ever visited a dentist. Awareness of halitosis was high (87%), primarily sourced from informal networks. No significant associations were found between halitosis and underlying medical or dental conditions.
Conclusion: While halitosis prevalence was relatively low, the study highlighted gaps in professional dental care access and reliance on informal awareness channels. Strengthening healthcare outreach and education programs can further mitigate halitosis impacts.
Keywords: Halitosis, oral health, prevalence, risk factors, market traders, Nigeria.