Key take-aways from the WHO’s Global Oral Health Action Plan

Oral disease is the number three most expensive disease – yet it can be prevented.

Oral disease affects around 45% of the world’s population

That is a higher prevalence than any other non-communicable disease. The Global Oral Health Action Plan (OHAP) aims to reduce the disease burden by 10% by 2030.

Oral diseases and conditions share risk factors with other non-communicable diseases

They include poor oral hygiene, tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption and high sugar intake. Additional risk factors include human papillomavirus for oropharyngeal cancers, dental trauma, malnutrition and inadequate sanitation.

Global oral health expenditure currently stands at around 387 billion US dollars

This distribution is very unequal across regions and countries. Oral disease disproportionately affects socio-economically disadvantaged people, yet treatment is complicated by high out-of-pocket payments due to limited oral health coverage. By 2030, 80% of the global population should be entitled to essential oral care services as part of universal oral healthcare.

National leadership for oral health is crucial

By 2030, 80% of countries should have an operational national oral health policy, strategy or action plan, as well as the necessary staff dedicated to oral health at their respective ministry of health.

Countries need an efficient health workforce

It is needed to respond to their populations’ oral health needs. The OHAP requires 50% of countries to have an operational national health workforce policy, plan or strategy by 2030.

National policies should proactively promote oral health and prevent disease

That is why by 2030, 50% of countries should implement policy measures to reduce free sugars intake, and offer guidance on optimal fluoride delivery.

Oral healthcare needs to be integrated into primary care

The OHAP’s goal is for 80% of countries to provide oral healthcare services in primary care facilities. In addition, at least half of the countries should offer the essential medicines as established by the WHO.

Countries need to implement a monitoring framework

It is necessary to follow up on the successes of their oral health policy, strategies, or action plan. Gathering sociodemographic information from various perspectives (e.g. gender, age, socioeconomic status and location) should contribute to more equitable policy.