The World Health Organization has published a landmark report that looks at the scale of oral diseases affecting the world. In concerning findings, almost half of the world’s population suffers from some sort of mouth disease. The findings show that oral diseases are widespread, and that action is needed to tackle them.
The World Health Organization have announced that almost half of the world’s population suffers from some sort of mouth disease, in worrying news.
Mouth diseases can include anything from oral cancer to tooth decay. All conditions have a debilitating effect on those who suffer from them.
This announcement came in a report released by the WHO [1]. It shows that there are many mouth-related problems facing the world – including oral health-based conditions.
WHO Report
The World Health Organization have released the “Global Oral Health Status Report” [1]. This is a report that reviews data on major oral diseases, risk factors, health system challenges and opportunities for reform [1].
In the context of this report, mouth diseases include gum disease, tooth decay, oral cancers and tooth loss among other conditions.
The report took into account all 194 of the world’s countries. The WHO found that 45% of the world’s population – approximately 3.5billion people – have some form of oral illness [1].
The vast majority of these people have some form of dental health issue like tooth decay or gum disease. For example, the WHO said that over 1billion people alone are affected by severe gum disease [1].
But the biggest issue is untreated dental caries, which affects almost 2.5billion people around the world [1]. Therefore, huge swathes of people need urgent dental work done.
Mouth cancer is another common disease. Moreover, the WHO stated that approximately 380,000 new cases of oral cancers are diagnosed every year [1].
Rather shockingly, the report found that global cases of mouth diseases had increased by over 1billion over the last 3 decades [1].
One of the main problems with oral diseases is that often people don’t realize that they have a problem [1]. Then, by the time they do realize they have a problem, treatment is typically more invasive and costly.
These statistics are very worrying, and suggests that oral health is something that needs more attention and treatment. Otherwise, these statistics will only worsen.
Inequities in treatment
The WHO pointed out that three-quarters of those suffering from oral diseases live in low and middle-income countries [1]. This points to severe inequities in treatment.
Furthermore, vulnerable people like the disabled or the elderly were also much more likely to be affected by oral diseases [1].
It is a similar story for those living in rural communities, where accessing dental treatment can be challenging. The WHO said that their findings are “a clear indication that many people do not have access to prevention and treatment of oral diseases” [2].
Then there is also the cost factor, which is a serious problem. Dental fees are typically high, with some people unable to afford them. Therefore, some must live in intense pain, due to not having the money to fund dental operations [1].
Indeed, the WHO have acknowledged that oral diseases can result in “catastrophic costs and significant financial burden for families and communities” [2].
They also noted that the provision of oral health services involves an over-reliance on advanced equipment and materials – something that isn’t available universally [1].
WHO Comments
Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus is the Head of the WHO. He has said that “many oral diseases can be prevented and treated with cost-effective measures” [2].
Continuing, he said that “oral health has long been neglected in global health” [2]. The statistics in this report certainly support this belief.
The WHO have pointed out that risk factors for oral diseases include a high sugar intake, tobacco use and alcohol abuse [1]. Therefore, it is highly recommended that people change any unhealthy habits they have.
The WHO note that their findings are directed at “policymakers, practitioners, researchers, development agencies and members of the private sector and civil society” [1]. Therefore, they clearly wish for action to be taken to tackle this issue.
Earlier in 2022, the World Health Assembly launched a global strategy on oral health, with the aim of universal health coverage for oral health for all individuals and communities by 2030 [3].
The group are developing a detailed action plan, with the aim of putting this aim into practice [3]. This could result in global improvements in oral health – which is clearly an issue.
These results act as a reminder that oral health is crucial. Oral diseases are largely preventable, with excellent oral hygiene being crucial. Attending dental check-ups and engaging with treatment plans are other actions that can help us all.
Thinking points…
1) Many people require dental treatment without even realizing it. While your mouth, teeth and gums may feel healthy, it is important to still visit a dental clinic twice a year for a check-up. Remember, the earlier that problems are treated, the easier and less costly they are. If left untreated, problems won’t go away, they will worsen. It is therefore crucial to attend check-ups, we recommend booking one now!
2) The report included an estimated prevalence of dental caries in each country. Canada was in the lowest category – which is very positive! This underlines the excellent facilities available across the nation. But we cannot afford to get complacent, and should use the facilities at our disposal. Therefore, remember to attend check-ups regularly, and attend treatment when needed!
What we offer at Savanna Dental
Savanna Dental is a Calgary dental clinic that offers many services, including regular check-ups, cavity fillings and root canals.
We are also pleased to offer some cosmetic services. Here at our Calgary dental clinic, we offer treatments like tooth whitening, Invisalign™ and dental implants.
It is important for oral problems to be addressed early. Any issues can be identified at check-ups. If further treatment is needed after a check-up, our patients receive a clear treatment plan that is suited to their needs. Early detection helps to prevent the problem getting worse.
The best way of avoiding extra treatment is to have strong oral hygiene. This includes brushing our teeth at least twice a day, flossing regularly, and getting a dental check-up at least twice a year. Avoiding sugary foods and drink and not smoking also helps.
Our Calgary-based dental clinic Savanna Dental follows the Alberta Dental Fee Guide. This means our prices are competitive, transparent and affordable.
We would love you to visit us here at Savanna Dental soon! You can see more about us by visiting our website https://savannadentalclinic.ca.
References
[1] World Health Organization. (2022). Global oral health status report: Towards universal health coverage for oral health by 2030. Available: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240061484. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.
[2] Medical Xpress. (2022). Mouth diseases hit nearly half the world’s people: WHO. Available: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2022-11-mouth-diseases-world-people.html. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.
[3] World Health Organization. (2022). WHO highlights oral health neglect affecting nearly half of the world’s population. Available: https://www.who.int/news/item/18-11-2022-who-highlights-oral-health-neglect-affecting-nearly-half-of-the-world-s-population. Last accessed: 26th November 2022.
