Distribution and Clustering of Social Problems in an Aided Population Group

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Abstract
In a rural community in southern Norway, data on housing conditions, major diseases and impairments, and on the use of medicines, were obtained by interviewing 216 recipients of social insurance and/or welfare assistance aged 20–60 who were participating in a subsidized dental program. Information on dental status was obtained from clinical records. 87 % of all persons had running water in their quarters, but only 21 % had an indoor toilet. 16 % meant that their housing were in a poor condition. Owing to disabling conditions, 23 % of the group were unable to work and 28 % were limited as to extent or type of work. The most common reasons for their disability were rheumatism, diseases of the circulatory system, and mental or nervous disorders. Dental health was generally poor. Only 18 % had 20 or more natural teeth remaining while 67 % were wearing some kind of removable denture. Nearly every second upper denture needed replacement owing to major defects. Multiple problems were most common among persons who were dependent on state benefit as well as welfare assistance.

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