DT News - MEA - Interview: "... Dubai Health Authority strives on the values of community wellbeing..."

Dental Tribune Middle East

Tue. 25 April 2017

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During this years' World Oral Health Day, Dental Tribune MEA had an opportunity to talk to Dr. Hamda Sultan Al Mesmar, Director of Dental Services Department at Dubai Health Authority's Primary Healthcare Sector.

DTMEA/CAPPmea: Could you please tell us why Dubai Health Authority is involved in World Oral Health Day and why is it so important for Dubai?
Dr. Hamda Sultan Al Mesmar: The dental services department at Dubai Health Authority identifies the need of enhancing awareness amongst school-going children to reduce the prevalence of caries. The World Oral Health Day (WOHD) is one of the many platforms we use to educate the public on the importance of good oral hygiene. In addition, World Oral Health Day is celebrated globally every year on 20th March. It is an international day to celebrate the benefits of a healthy mouth and to promote awareness of oral health.

What was the main focus of WOHD at GEMS Wellington College?
20th of March marks the world oral health day and, as children are the main target, GEMS Wellington had a multicultural perspective and interest on our goal to educate. Children received dental screenings in our fully-equipped mobile dental van along with an educational session, focusing on the importance of dental hygiene and a healthy diet.

How can dentists in Dubai increase their own involvement with WOHD?
The dental services department at Dubai Health Authority has the opportunity to collaborate with Dubai dentists during events such as the World Oral Health Day. Everyone in the dental health profession can make a difference to reduce the prevalence of caries in the Emirate.

Is there enough awareness amongst students in Dubai on oral health, or overall well-being?
There is a need to increase awareness amongst students within the Emirate. Based on the survey done by the dental services department in 2013, the prevalence of caries of school students aged 5 years old was 65%; way over levels in comparison to other countries in the world.

How does the dental community in Dubai participate in WOHD?
The dental community plays a very crucial role through collaborations and activities focused on the goal of reducing the prevalence of caries in the Emirate. There is a lot to be done in the field. This is not impossible and can be achieved through bringing like minds together.

What has Dubai Health Authority learned from this day?
Like many goals that the Dubai Health Authority strives for, the values of community wellbeing and reducing the prevalence of caries in Dubai will be an achievement.

What kind of impact does this day have on public in general?
The community has a great role in reducing the number of dental cavities among children. Parents, guardians, school nurses, administrators are vital in playing the role of mentors and educators in imparting good knowledge of dental care among the children.

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