Early detection of oral cancer: a key role for dentists?

Purpose: The majority of suspected malignant changes in the oral mucosa are detected by dentists in private practice. Statements regarding the effectiveness of visual examination of the oral cavity for early detection are not necessarily transferable between different health care systems. Our clinical-epidemiological and methodological aim was thus to conduct a prospective regional study in dental practices under everyday conditions, assess the frequency and type of oral mucosal changes, and evaluate the dental examination methodology.

[Is the school entrance examination a door opener for health sciences research? : Analyzing study participation of hard-to-reach groups].

Background: Additional scientific surveys within the compulsory school entrance examination (SEE) have become increasingly popular, partly because the SEE potentially reaches all socioeconomic groups. However, it has not been sufficiently explored whether selective participation in voluntary supplementary surveys actually results in no selection bias along socioeconomic characteristics. Therefore, the aim of this study is to analyze the participation of potentially hard-to-reach families in a parent survey at the SEE.

[How Representative are Participants of a Parent Survey in the Context of School Entrance Examination].

Aim: In an evaluation study of preventive programmes, the recruitment success of families in difficult socio-economic circumstances was examined during the school entrance examination (SEE).

Method: Using a 3-stage recruitment procedure, parents were motivated to participate in the survey. The response rate was calculated for the entire cohort and separately for the single recruitment stages.

Socio-demographic, medical and social-cognitive correlates of physical activity behavior among older adults (45-70 years): a cross-sectional study.

Background: Present study aimed to identify socio-demographic, medical and social-cognitive correlates of physical activity among Dutch older individuals.

Methods: A systematic random sample of 2,568 Dutch participants aged 45-70 years filled out the validated modified Community Healthy Activities Model Program for Seniors (CHAMPS) questionnaire on physical activity. Socio-demographic and social-cognitive correlates were measured with validated instruments; medical correlates were checked by a general practitioner.

Screening results for subclinical coronary artery calcification in asymptomatic individuals in relation to a detailed parental history of premature coronary heart disease.

A parental history of premature coronary heart disease (CHD) is an established risk factor for CHD events in descendants. The study aim was to investigate whether subclinical coronary artery calcification (CAC) differs between asymptomatic individuals (a) without a parental CHD history, (b) with a parental history and (c) without knowledge of parental CHD history. The inclusion of individuals without knowledge of parental CHD history is a new approach.