Factors Affecting the Incidence of Dental Caries in Population Groups

The survey recently made and the results published (1) under the auspices of the U. S. Public Health Service have made available for the first time mass statistics on the comparative incidence of dental caries in population groups. While one may perhaps question the absolute accuracy of the data collected, the method of its collection at least gives it a considerable value for comparing one region with another. The undertaking was an enormous one, and, although the end results fell far short of those desired, the published statistics do yield valuable information. Beyond the observations of Price and others (7) on the relative freedom from caries enjoyed by people living under primitive conditions, and the early onset of tooth decay and dental abnormalities when they become contaminated by trade or intercourse with civilized groups, little has been known of the incidence of tooth decay over the earth. It has generally been held to be less prevalent in our southern states than in the North, but definite comparative figures have been lacking. Because of its importance in the general health of individuals, tooth decay ranks as a health problem of no mean proportion, so that it becomes worth while to secure a general view of it as it varies from region to region and group to group. In the present communication will be presented summarized data of such regional and group relationships, with a discussion of their possible significance in regard to caries causation and prophylaxis. Latitude and Caries Incidence. Using data taken from Public Health Bulletin S 226 (1), an index of caries incidence was derived as follows: Boys of the 12-14 year age group were used throughout the