A BSTRACT Background: Oral health is a vital component of overall health and well-being, significantly influencing physical, social, and economic productivity. However, disparities in oral health outcomes persist between rural and urban populations, particularly in developing countries like India. This study investigates the disparities in oral healthcare accessibility, availability, affordability, acceptability, and accommodation between rural and urban populations. Methods: A cross-sectional, comparative study design was adopted. Data were collected from 250 participants (125 rural and 125 urban) through a validated 28-item questionnaire. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi-Square tests, and logistic regression. Geospatial mapping was performed to assess the distribution and accessibility of dental clinics. Results: The analysis revealed significant disparities in clinic availability, with urban areas hosting 56 clinics within a 60 km radius compared to only 28 clinics in rural regions. Urban residents mostly lived within 1 km of a clinic, while rural residents were over 10 km away. Logistic regression revealed proximity (OR = 3.5, P = 0.001) and affordability (OR = 1.7, P = 0.025) as significant predictors of healthcare utilization. Affordability barriers were more pronounced in rural areas, with 50% avoiding visits due to costs versus 20% in urban areas. Cultural acceptability was also lower in rural populations (50% vs. 70%). Conclusion: Oral healthcare disparities between rural and urban populations in Lucknow, India, underscore the need for targeted interventions, including mobile dental units, financial support, and culturally sensitive education programs. Equitable policies are essential to enhance health outcomes for underserved communities.
Rajput et al. (Wed,) studied this question.