Epidemiology

Survey findings

Results from the programmes in the various countries can be found :-

• England
• Scotland
• Wales

The British Association for the Study of Community Dentistry (BASCD) plays a key role in supporting dental epidemiology in the NHS. BASCD is responsible for the coordination of surveys of child dental health across Great Britain allowing national and local comparisons of oral health. Surveys started in 1985/86 in England and Wales and in 1987/88 Scotland also participated. Northern Ireland also participated from 1993/94.

At first the surveys were of school children only, identical across the UK, and during a 4-year cycle examined children aged 5, 12, 5, 14.

Since 2003 the various country programmes have differed, as a reflection of devolution and local priorities. Scotland examines 5- and 12-year olds every other year.

In England 5- and 12-year- olds are examined in 2 years out of each 4-year cycle, the other years are used to address oral health issues of
other groups.

Wales has a similar programme to England. Currently Northern Ireland does not routinely collect survey data.