The 30th Fiji Oral Health Association Conference underscored the growing need for medical care in light of post-COVID challenges, disease outbreaks, and oral health issues. Dr. Luisa Cikamatana, Chief Medical Advisor, pointed out that poor diets and climate change have negatively impacted the health of Pacific communities.
According to the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study, around 3.5 billion people worldwide suffer from oral diseases, with high sugar intake being associated with diabetes, obesity, and dental decay. Dr. Cikamatana reaffirmed the Government’s dedication to tackling Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) through a collaborative, multi-sectoral strategy.
The upcoming budget for 2024-2025 focuses on community outreach, acknowledging the crucial role of dental professionals in responding to the pandemic and preparing for future health challenges.
Dr. Mehar Ali, President of the Association, called on dentists to pursue ongoing education, highlighting the ever-evolving nature of the dentistry field. She emphasized that the conference serves as a valuable platform for practitioners to exchange the latest innovations and trends. This year’s theme, “Cultivating Connections, Communications, and Collaborations,” underscores the significance of teamwork within the dental profession.