Angola Marks World Oral Health Day with Call for Improved Access to Dental Care
On March 20th, the Angolan Ministry of Health commemorated World Oral Health Day by hosting a gathering of specialists, health professionals, and representatives from civil society, academia, and the private sector at the Chimbicato Maternal and Child Center in Luanda. The event aimed to assess the current state of oral health in Angola and reinforce strategies for prevention and access to dental care.
The Secretary of State for Public Health, Dr. Carlos Alberto Pinto de Sousa, emphasized the need for oral health to be prioritized on the national public health agenda. He stressed the importance of strengthening public policies, professional training, and raising awareness among the population about the significance of oral health care.
Despite being a crucial component of overall health, oral health is often overlooked in public health systems, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where access to dental services is limited and treatment costs are high. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that approximately 3.5 billion people worldwide suffer from oral diseases, disproportionately affecting vulnerable populations and leading to serious complications.
In the African Region, oral diseases continue to be a prevalent issue, with around 42% of the population affected in 2021. The lack of dental services and effective prevention programs contribute to this high prevalence. The WHO is committed to supporting Angola in implementing policies that ensure an integrated and sustainable response to oral health challenges.
The World Oral Health Day event in Angola featured a panel discussion highlighting the importance of oral health during pregnancy, professional training, and the integration of oral health services into primary care. Participants shared personal experiences, such as Maria José, whose son Paulo Machinde suffered from toothache, underscoring the importance of daily hygiene practices and preventive care.
This year’s theme, “A happy mouth contributes to a happy mind,” emphasizes the connection between oral health and overall well-being, emphasizing the need for preventive care and improved access to oral health services. The event served as a platform to raise awareness and encourage proactive measures to promote oral health in Angola.
This article was originally distributed by APO Group on behalf of the World Health Organization (WHO) – Angola.
