Introduction:

Age brings with it changes in the structure and function of the oral cavity. Factors such as metabolism and nutrition may be associated with the occurrence of oral lesions. The objective of the present study was to describe the prevalence of oral lesions, systemic alterations and nutritional pattern of a sample of elderly adults in Cartagena (Colombia).

Materials and methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out in five geriatric centers in Cartagena (Colombia). The state of oral and systemic health was evaluated through intraoral examination and clinical history; In addition, the nutritional pattern through a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics.

Results:

185 adults older than 59 years were evaluated. 51.9% correspond to the female gender and 48.1% to the male gender. According to the state of oral health, the oral lesions most frequently observed were the tumor torus-compatible (47.1%) and tongue fissures (24.9%). According to the state of systemic health, the most frequent diseases were arterial hypertension (50.8%) and diabetes mellitus (38.4%). As for the nutritional pattern, a high consumption of farinaceous foods (rich in complex carbohydrates) (3408±1068 gr/week), fruits (1956±1682 gr/week) and dairy products (1616±514 gr/week).

Conclusion:

The sample of older adults evaluated presents oral lesions and systemic diseases frequent in this population group. However, the nutritional status may be altered by the low consumption of foods with high protein content.

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