SCHOOL OF DENTISTRY

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.

Background: Substance use among young adults remains a major global and national public health concern, with significant implications for academic performance, physical and mental health, and social functioning. Students in medical related courses are expected to demonstrate greater health consciousness, understanding the prevalence, determinants, and commonly abused substances within this population is crucial for effective intervention and policy formulation. Aim: To evaluate substance-use among undergraduate students in the College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin. Methodology: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 437 undergraduate students drawn from the College of Medical Sciences of the University of Benin. Data was collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire assessing socio-demographic variables, knowledge, attitude, and practice of substance-use. The data was analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, results were presented in frequency tables and charts. Associations between variables were tested using Chi-square at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results: The prevalence of substance-use among respondents was 80.5%, with alcohol being the most commonly used substance, followed by cough syrups and prescription medications such as opioids and stimulants. Male students and those in clinical faculties reported higher rates of use compared to their counterparts in basic sciences. Curiosity, academic stress, and peer influence were the major contributing factors. A significant association was observed between substance use and socio-demographic variables such as age, faculty, and place of residence.