Oral health neglect affects half of the world

The report shows that almost half of the world’s population (45 per cent or 3.5 billion people) suffer from oral diseases, with three out of every four affected people living in low- and middle-income countries. Global cases of oral diseases have increased by 1 billion over the last 30 years—a clear indication that many people do not have access to prevention and treatment of oral diseases.

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO director-general said, “Oral health has long been neglected in global health, but many oral diseases can be prevented and treated with the cost-effective measures outlined in this report.

“WHO is committed to providing guidance and support to countries so that all people, wherever they live and whatever their income, have the knowledge and tools needed to look after their teeth and mouths, and to access services for prevention and care when they need them.”