Catalyzing the global response to noncommunicable diseases: lessons from the global oral health agenda

Oral health is a key indicator of overall health, well-being, and quality of life. Sadly, 3.5 billion people worldwide are affected by oral diseases, and live with pain, impairment, poverty, or an increased risk of death. Oral diseases and over 100 NCDs share the same modifiable risk factors, including tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, and unhealthy diets, as well as social determinants of health such as socioeconomic status, education, access to healthcare, and living conditions. These social determinants not only influence the prevalence and severity of oral diseases but also exacerbate health disparities, with marginalized communities experiencing greater challenges in accessing care and achieving optimal oral health. The economic impact of oral diseases is also profound. Direct costs include expenses for treatments and medications, while indirect costs involve lost productivity and long-term financial burdens due to complex and costly interventions. These economic factors strain both individual finances and health systems, highlighting the need for cost-effective preventive measures and interventions.

The newly adopted Bangkok Declaration reinforces mechanisms through which oral health can be integrated into the global NCD agenda, as we approach the UN High-Level Meeting on NCDs. The proposal to establish a Global Oral Health Coalition is also a key opportunity for the global NCD community.

Through an engaging photovoice presentation examining the social determinants of oral diseases, participants will discuss the opportunities to address NCDs through the implementation of the landmark Oral Health Resolution, the Global Strategy on Oral Health, and the Global Oral Health Action Plan (2023 – 2030). Participants will learn the economic case for investing in oral health, highlighting its potential to drive significant economic and health improvements across several NCDs. The role of political leadership, champion governments and civil society in elevating oral health on the agenda of governments will also be discussed.