New Delhi, July 14 (IANS): Researchers from All India Medical Science (AIIMS) have highlighted the importance of oral health in cancer care and cancer survivorship. They cited global studies indicating a link between oral health and cancer, particularly in head and neck cancers. They urged the need for public health initiatives to integrate oral health practices across all healthcare settings. They suggested toothbrushing programs for enhancing oral care and implementing oral mouthrinse-based point-of-care testing for early diagnosis of periodontal disease. The paper also suggested sensitizing and incentivizing teachers and families about oral health, providing free toothbrush and toothpaste samples, and implementing public health interventions like nutrition and sugar warning labels. The experts called for proper studies in Southeast Asia and not just translating Western findings to the region’s context. The systemic and public health importance of oral health in cancer-related outcomes is also emphasized.
