The 30th Fiji Oral Health Association Conference underscored the growing demand for medical care stemming from challenges such as post-COVID recovery, disease outbreaks, and oral health issues. Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, Chief Medical Advisor, expressed concern that unhealthy diets and climate change have negatively impacted the health of Pacific populations.
The 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study revealed that nearly 3.5 billion people worldwide are affected by oral diseases, with a strong correlation between high sugar intake and conditions such as diabetes, obesity, and dental decay. Dr. Cikamatana reiterated the Government’s dedication to tackling Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) through a multi-faceted strategy.
The upcoming 2024-2025 budget places a strong emphasis on community outreach, acknowledging the crucial role of dental professionals in responding to pandemics and preparing for future health challenges. Dr. Mehar Ali, President of the Association, encouraged dentists to pursue continuing education in response to the ever-evolving nature of dentistry, highlighting the conference as a venue for sharing the latest innovations and trends.
This year’s theme, “Cultivating Connections, Communications, and Collaborations,” reflects the significance of cooperation within the dental community.