Dental caries in association with viral load in children living with HIV in Phnom Penh, Cambodia: a cross‐sectional study

Abstract Background Oral health status is associated with the overall among people living human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection. However, it unclear whether dental caries viral load in this population. Particularly, children HIV needs better understanding as can affect their and future well-being. This study assessed association between Phnom Penh, Cambodia. Methods cross-sectional study, conducted at National Pediatric Hospital a baseline survey of randomized controlled trial, included 328, 3–15-year-old primary caregivers. Calibrated trained examiners oral examinations for (DMFT/dmft index) retrieved latest data from hospital’s patient information system. On examination day, caregivers were invited to answer questionnaire-based interview. Multiple logistic regression analysis was assess load. The cut-off point undetectable set < 40 copies/mL. Results Data 328 analysis; 68.3% had an mean DMFT/dmft 7.7 (standard deviation = 5.0). Adjusted showed that permanent or deciduous teeth positively detectable (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 1.07, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–1.14). Conversely, antiretroviral therapy ≥ 1 year self-reported adherence drugs negatively Among load, non-suppression (> 1000 copies/mL) (AOR: 1.12, CI: 1.03–1.23). Conclusions Dental detection HIV. finding suggests may immune status. should be strengthened, further research needed clarify causal relationship