Improving oral health in the U.S. requires addressing high risk individuals many of whom are minorities. An extensive literature review to establish the basis for a community demonstration research project in a minority population has been conducted. A study design has been developed and is being evaluated for implementation. Staff have also developed a summary of oral health status of Black adults. Staff are analyzing NIDR and NCHS data with a specific focus on oral health behaviors and oral health status of Black Americans. These analyses have resulted in presentations at professional meetings and manuscripts for publications. Staff from the Health Promotion Section, in collaboration with a staff member form the Analytical Studies and Decisions Systems Branch, are developing an issues paper dealing with Hispanic Oral Health in the United States with special focus on access to care and available clinical disease indicators. This manuscript along a more extensive outline of Hispanic oral health issues and methodological considerations is being developed to guide the deliberations and discussions of a working group that will be convened during Fall 1993 to address Hispanic oral health issues and develop a proposed research agenda.
