KARACHI: Maintaining good oral health is a fundamental aspect of overall well-being and quality of life. Dr. Ayyaz Ali Khan, the esteemed founding President of the International Association of Dental Sciences & Research (IADSR) and Editor in Chief of the Journal of Pakistan Dental Association (JPDA), highlighted the importance of comprehensive oral care during a press conference for the "Keeping Pakistan Smiling" Oral Health Weeks 2023, being marked by Colgate Pakistan. With a distinguished career in dentistry, Dr Ayyaz Ali Khan is a prominent advocate for comprehensive oral care and awareness.
Dr Khan emphasised the urgent need to address global oral health issues. He noted that historically, oral health has been overlooked in the context of global health. However, the substantial increase in oral diseases can be addressed through cost-effective measures, as outlined in a recent report.
He referenced a World Health Organization (WHO) report from the previous year, revealing a staggering 1 billion rise in global oral disease cases over the past three decades. This rise underscores a significant gap in access to prevention and treatment of oral ailments.
Drawing parallels with noncommunicable diseases like cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and mental disorders, Dr Khan pointed out that oral health inequalities mirror those of these conditions. Common risk factors such as excessive sugar consumption, various forms of tobacco use consumption contribute to the ongoing global oral health crisis, he added.
Omer Qadri, director marketing Colgate-Palmolive Pakistan, highlighted the organisation's achievements in the realm of oral health. He explained that the "Keeping Pakistan Smiling" Oral Health Weeks 2023 is an initiative by Colgate Pakistan to promote oral health awareness and provide free dental check-ups across 21 cities and towns in Pakistan. Taking place from August 28th to September 21st, 2023, this campaign underscores Colgate's commitment to enhancing oral hygiene across all segments of society.
"Colgate's dedication to offering free oral care to millions of individuals has resulted in positive outcomes from their previous mass-oriented initiatives," stated Mr Qadri.
Anum Sadik, Senior Brand Manager Marketing at Colgate-Palmolive, sharing important insights during the press event revealed that on average, individuals in Pakistan use 85 grams of toothpaste per person, which is lower compared to the global average. She provided details about Colgate's execution plan, explaining how the upcoming campaign will unfold.
Central to the initiative is the collection of visitor data by volunteers at dental health camps. This data will contribute to research and help spread awareness about oral hygiene. The "Keeping Pakistan Smiling" Oral Health Weeks 2023, hosted by Colgate Pakistan, are scheduled from August 28th to September 21st, 2023. This campaign spans 21 cities and towns in Pakistan, covering over 750 locations, including institutions, hospitals, clinics, and schools. It serves as evidence of Colgate's unwavering commitment to promoting better oral hygiene.
With a rich legacy of 35 years in Pakistan, Colgate Pakistan remains dedicated to the mission of "Keeping Pakistan Smiling." By providing essential knowledge about maintaining oral health, Colgate envisions a future where the nation's smiles are not only brighter and healthier but also free from cavities, radiating confidence and well-being.
The Oral Health Weeks go beyond celebrating vibrant smiles; they symbolize the vital role that oral hygiene plays in the overall well-being of every individual.