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ORAL HEALTH UNMASKED: A SCIENTIST’S PERSPECTIVE ON THE NEGLECTED DIMENSION IN TANZANIA
  • +6
  • Majani Edward,
  • Daniel Agyapong,
  • Innocent Paul,
  • Ibrahim Idris,
  • Gbassara Koulagna Boris,
  • Kengo Ezie,
  • Emelia Azeyele Kpiebaya,
  • Shuaibu Saidu Musa,
  • Lucero-Prisno III Don Eliseo
Majani Edward
University of St Francis Leach College of Nursing

Corresponding Author:majanimedward@gmail.com

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Daniel Agyapong
University for Development Studies - Nyankpala Campus
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Innocent Paul
Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences Institute of Allied Health Sciences
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Ibrahim Idris
Kaduna State University Faculty of Medicine
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Gbassara Koulagna Boris
Universite de Yaounde I Faculte de Medecine et des Sciences Biomedicales
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Kengo Ezie
Archidiocese de Garoua
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Emelia Azeyele Kpiebaya
University of Liverpool Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics
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Shuaibu Saidu Musa
Ahmadu Bello University Zaria Department of Library and Information Science
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Lucero-Prisno III Don Eliseo
London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Department of Global Health and Development
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Abstract

The World Health Organization's definition of oral health frames the discussion, highlighting its holistic nature encompassing physiological, psychosocial, and functional dimensions. The current estimates of oral diseases in Tanzania and around the world underscore the urgency of intervention, particularly in light of rising sugar consumption trends. The unique challenges facing Tanzania, including inadequate knowledge, limited infrastructure, and disparities in oral healthcare access, are analyzed within the broader context of sub-Saharan Africa's health priorities. This perspective addresses the multifaceted challenges of oral health neglect in Tanzania, emphasizing the imperative for a comprehensive and integrated approach. The commentary offers a detailed exploration of determinants contributing to oral health neglect, spanning socioeconomic, behavioral, and commercial factors, with a focus on their implications for Tanzanian communities. Recommendations are presented as a strategic roadmap, encompassing public health education, integrated healthcare services, government intervention, educational programs, community engagement, financial accessibility, and research initiatives. By synthesizing these recommendations into a cohesive framework, a proactive and collaborative approach to mitigate the consequences of oral health neglect in Tanzania, emphasizing the need for transformative policies 3and cultural sensitivity are therefore envisioned.
Submitted to Public Health Challenges
24 Jan 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
24 Jan 2024Editorial Decision: Revise Major
28 Mar 20241st Revision Received
28 Mar 2024Submission Checks Completed
28 Mar 2024Assigned to Editor
28 Mar 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
09 May 2024Submission Checks Completed
09 May 2024Assigned to Editor
09 May 2024Review(s) Completed, Editorial Evaluation Pending
12 May 2024Editorial Decision: Accept