Perceived discrimination in health services and preventive dental attendance in Brazilian adults

Objectives It is evident that discriminatory attitudes affect different dimensions of personal life, including health. This study aimed to verify the association between perceived discrimination in health services and preventive dental attendance in Brazilian adults. Methods This cross‐sectional study used secondary data from the 2013 National Health Survey (PNS), a representative survey of the Brazilian population. The response rate was 91.9%, with 60,202 adults agreeing to complete the oral health self‐perception questionnaire. Data were analysed using the software STATA 14.0. A descriptive sample analysis was conducted that considered sample weight as well as an association between health discrimination and factors associated with preventive dental attendance through Poisson regression models. Results Adjusted analysis demonstrated that, regarding the reasons that led to discrimination, lack of money, social class and type of working occupation showed a negative association with preventive dental attendance. Conclusion Our findings show that discrimination perpetuates health inequities. Those with worse social conditions need more assistance as they struggle with discrimination and end up going for a check‐up after the disease is established or advanced. Preventive care, which could change the health condition of the disadvantaged population, is often a reality only for those less vulnerable.