Periodontal diseases, a group of complex conditions marked by an excessive immune response and periodontal tissue destruction, are a global health concern. Since 1990, the incidence of these diseases has doubled, with Western sub‐Saharan Africa experiencing the highest burden. Accurate diagnosis and case identification are crucial for understanding the etiology, features of disease, research, treatment and prevention. Modern perspectives on periodontal disease classification are based on commonality among those affected. However, current literature is often plagued by methodological inconsistencies and focused on disease mechanisms in European populations. Health inequalities in low‐ and middle‐income countries (LMICs) are exacerbated by these challenges, with sub‐Saharan Africa, and Nigeria specifically, facing unique difficulties such as clinical personnel shortages and limited research infrastructure. This review explored disparities in periodontal disease research, care and outcomes in African populations. We highlighted these disparities and identified the factors contributing to inequities in periodontal health outcomes. We further demonstrated the critical need for inclusive and equitable healthcare and research practices tailored to the unique challenges faced by diverse populations and regions with limited resources. Addressing these disparities is essential for ensuring that advancements in healthcare are accessible to all, thereby improving global oral health and general health.

中文翻译：

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非洲的牙周病


牙周病是一组以过度免疫反应和牙周组织破坏为特征的复杂病症，是一个全球性的健康问题。自 1990 年以来，这些疾病的发病率翻了一番，其中撒哈拉以南非洲西部的负担最严重。准确诊断和病例识别对于了解病因、疾病特征、研究、治疗和预防至关重要。牙周病分类的现代观点基于受影响者的共性。然而，目前的文献经常受到方法学不一致的困扰，并专注于欧洲人群的疾病机制。这些挑战加剧了低收入和中等收入国家 （LMIC） 的健康不平等，撒哈拉以南非洲，特别是尼日利亚，面临着临床人员短缺和研究基础设施有限等独特困难。本综述探讨了非洲人群牙周病研究、护理和结局的差异。我们强调了这些差异，并确定了导致牙周健康结果不平等的因素。我们进一步证明了对包容性和公平的医疗保健和研究实践的迫切需求，这些实践针对资源有限的不同人群和地区面临的独特挑战量身定制。解决这些差异对于确保所有人都能获得医疗保健的进步至关重要，从而改善全球口腔健康和总体健康状况。