The 30th Fiji Oral Health Association Conference underscored the growing need for medical care in the wake of post-COVID challenges, disease outbreaks, and oral health issues. Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, the Chief Medical Advisor, pointed out that unhealthy diets and climate change have negatively impacted the health of Pacific communities.
According to the Global Burden of Disease Study from 2019, around 3.5 billion people worldwide suffer from oral diseases, with high sugar intake being associated with diabetes, obesity, and dental caries. Dr. Cikamatana highlighted the Government’s dedication to tackling Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) through a multi-faceted strategy.
The upcoming budget for 2024-2025 will focus on community outreach, acknowledging the critical role dental professionals play in responding to pandemics and ensuring future health readiness.
Association President Dr. Mehar Ali encouraged dentists to continue their education, as the field of dentistry is constantly evolving. She emphasized that the conference serves as a platform for professionals to exchange the latest innovations and trends. This year’s theme, “Cultivating Connections, Communications, and Collaborations,” emphasizes the significance of teamwork in the dental profession.