Work-family conflict modifies the association of smoking and periodontal disease

Abstract

Purpose: The aims of the study were to assess the association of periodontal loss of attachment with smoking and work-family conflict and assess whether work-family conflict modifies the association of smoking and periodontal disease. Method: A random sample of 45–54 year olds from metropolitan Adelaide, South Australia, was surveyed by mailed self-complete questionnaire during 2004–2005. Oral examinations were performed on persons who responded to the questionnaire, providing an assessment of periodontal status. Results: A total of 879 responded (participation rate = 43.8 %), with n = 709 oral examinations (completion rate = 80.7 %). Prevalence of periodontal loss of attachment (LOA) of 6+ mm was higher (p < 0.05) for smokers (23.8 %) compared to non-smokers (7.8 %) among employed adults. The adjusted prevalence ratio for LOA 6+ mm was prevalence ratio (PR) = 4.9 (95 % CI 2.2–8.8) for smokers, and there was a significant interaction (p < 0.05) between smoking status and work-family conflict. Conclusion: Work-family conflict modified the association of smoking with periodontal disease. Higher levels of work interfering with family were associated with higher levels of periodontal LOA for smokers compared with non-smokers.