KNOWLEDGE AND AWARENESS REGARDING INFANT ORAL HEALTH CARE AMONGST ANGANWADI WORKERS UNDER ICDS PROGRAMME IN DISTRICT BARAMULLA, JAMMU AND KASHMIR, INDIA

Objectives : Anganwadi workers (AWWs) provides a package of health services to mothers and infants, thereby playing a significant role in enhancement of community health . The present study aimed to assess knowledge and awareness regarding infant oral heath care amongst anganwadi workers under Integrated child development service programme in district Baramulla, Jammu and Kashmir India. Methods: A questionnaire based survey consisting of 10 questions regarding knowledge and awareness regarding infant oral health care was conducted among 105 anganwadi workers of boniyar block district baramulla Jammu & Kashmir, India. Results: Of the 105 participants, only 22.16% AWWs knew that baby?s mouth should be immediately after mother?s feed. 51 .42% AWWs reported that cleaning of the oral cavity should be done with soft cloth. 11.4% AWWs were aware that maximum breast feeding should be recommended for 18 months. 71.4 % AWWs replied that milk tooth should be saved. Conclusion: Our study concluded that AWWs posses knowledge and awareness about infant oral health care to some extend. However , there is strong need to conduct periodic health programs to updgrade the knowledge and awareness of AWWs related to infant oral health care.