Oral Health Education and Message Framing Effect on Oral Health Status of Refugees in Egypt

Refugees, facing forced displacement and often exposed to traumatic experiences, represent a vulnerable population with unique healthcare needs. Oral health is considered a prominent factor that contributes to quality of life. Therefore, this study aim at assessing the effect of message framing on enhancing oral health practices in a group of refugees in Alexandria, Egypt. A three-arm cluster randomized controlled clinical trial will compare a gain-framed mobile text messages group, a loss-framed mobile text messages group, and a control group. The primary outcome is the improvement in oral health practices measured by changes in dental plaque and secondary outcome is to assess change in oral health-related quality of life. In addition, oral health knowledge, attitudes, and practices of refugees will be assessed.

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.