Ministry launches national oral health survey

Kenya: The Ministry of Health has embarked on a national oral health survey to provide information needed on the burden of oral diseases and disabilities in the country.

Health Cabinet Secretary James Macharia identified the use of tobacco and alcohol as some of the leading causes of oral diseases like cancer in the country.

"Oral cancer is the eighth most common form of cancer in the world and is very costly to treat. We have a big role to play to reduce such cases," Mr Macharia said.

He said the ministry will support the prevention, early detection and treatment programmes of oral diseases and conditions. Macharia disclosed that the Government had already posted community oral health officers at all health centres for the prevention, promotion and treatment of common oral diseases.

"Oral health has been included in the mother and child handbook as part of the integration with other health services," he said.

This was contained in a speech read on his behalf by Naivasha Sub-County Commissioner Abraham Kemboi during celebrations to mark World Oral Health Day in Naivasha, Nakuru County.

The CS acknowledged county governments' commitment in educating the public on the importance of oral health. Nakuru Governor Kinuthia Mbugua said that his government was addressing the issue of high fluoride in water consumed in Naivasha town.

"Many people in Naivasha have been affected by the high fluoride levels in the water they consume and we are seeking ways to address this," he said.