DAVOS: Nearly half the world’s population—around 3.5 billion people—suffers from oral diseases, surpassing the combined cases of mental disorders, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancers. A new report by the World Economic Forum’s Oral Health Affinity Group (OHAG) reveals the staggering $710 billion annual cost in treatment and productivity losses due to oral health issues.
Despite its critical links to conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke, oral health remains neglected. Dental care is often excluded from essential healthcare systems, leaving vulnerable populations disproportionately affected. The separation of oral health from overall healthcare exacerbates affordability and accessibility challenges, particularly in low-income regions.
The OHAG report advocates integrating oral care into public health insurance and universal health coverage policies. Governments must enhance oral health literacy and partner with organizations to ensure affordable dental services. The private sector can contribute by providing access to cost-effective oral hygiene products and insurance plans that include dental care.
By addressing oral health as part of broader healthcare systems, societies can reduce overall health spending, improve productivity, and close health equity gaps. It’s time to prioritize oral health as a cornerstone of global health equity.