Introduction and objective:

The quality of life is an element to consider in the analysis of social determinants in vulnerable social groups. This study aims to determine to determine the oral health related quality of life (OHRQOL) in a group of women in situation of prostitution situation in Medellín (Colombia) and its related factors.

Materials and methods:

A descriptive study was conducted in a convenience sample of 53 women. A survey and clinical examination was carried out with sociodemographic information, use of health services and oral health status. The instrument OHIP-14 (Profile of Impact of Oral Health on Quality of Life) was used. A description of the OHIP-14 and its summary measures according to different variables was applied.

Results:

Psychological distress and disability were the dimensions that presented highest scores in the sample. 85% of women reported one or more impacts of their oral health on quality of life, representing an average of 4.8 impacts 95%CI (3.8-5.9). Higher impact indicators were observed according to sociodemographic factors such as: educational level, time at work, family burden, social support or use of psychoactive substances. Likewise, greater impacts were reported according to factors such as: being unsatisfied with their oral health, low oral health status, having oral problems, requiring priority oral health attention and reporting problems of access to dental care.

Conclusions:

There were gradients in the OHRQOL according to sociodemographic characteristics and oral health and access to oral health care variables. Situations of inequity are evidenced that must be considered in order to promote collective actions in this population.

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