Causal Factors Involving Family Physicians And/or Dentists that Affect the Six-Year Survival of Elderly Individuals

Author(s): Tanji Hoshi

Background: Living a long life is a reward for everyone. This study examines socioeconomic factors, physical, mental, and social health, lifestyle, and the prevalence of diseases as related factors in individuals with only a family physician and those with only a family dentist, investigating the causal structure of the survival rate in relation to these factors. Methods: In September 2001, a self-administered questionnaire was sent to 16,462 elderly residents of Tama City, Tokyo. A total of 13,066 responses were received, resulting in a response rate of 79.4%. The Survival Dayss up to 2007 were recorded. Results: Having only a dentist was significantly associated with a more prolonged six-year survival compared to having only a physician for both sexes. Additionally, "Socioeconomic Status" (latent variable) was identified as the primary causal factor of the "Three Health Factors." Regarding the cause and effect of having a [Physician and/or Dentist] (observed variable) on Survival Days, “Socioeconomic Factors," the "Three Health Factors," and ?Treated Diseases? were identified as confounding variables. Conclusions: The main factor influencing survival time was the patient's recommended socioeconomic status, particularly access to a family dentist. Additionally, socioeconomic factors are fundamental drivers that impact the reduction of treatable diseases through lifestyle choices and the maintenance of mental, physical, and social health. Choosing only a family dentist instead of a family physician was significantly linked to longer survival. Trial Registration Data The analytical data from this study are available from the UMIN SYSTEM in Japan as an open system (https://upload.umin.ac.jp/cgi-bin/fileshare/upload.cgi?DELETE=1&on=589518, Accessed July 1, 2025). Personal registration is required for data specifications. Additionally, analytical data and materials can be obtained from the first author via the following email address: star@onyx.dti.ne.jp (T. Hoshi, first author).