LMRPID-397473
Page 51
30th July 2024
Oral Health Disparities in Low-Income Communities: Evaluating Public Health Policies and Preventive Strategies in Bangladesh and Global Perspectives
Researcher- MOHIUDDIN SHOUROV | LGMID-27199320190101926
Reviewed by:
Lilac School of Medical Science & Technology (LSMT)
Paper preview
1. Abstract
2. Introduction
3. Literature Review
4. Methodology
5. Findings
6. Conclusion
7. References
Abstract
Oral health disparities in low-income communities remain a significant and growing public health challenge worldwide, particularly in developing nations such as Bangladesh. Systemic inequities, inadequate public health policies, and limited access to affordable dental care contribute to a high burden of preventable oral diseases. This study aims to evaluate the current state of oral health in low-income communities in Bangladesh, assess the effectiveness of existing policies and preventive measures, and explore global best practices to propose scalable and sustainable solutions. Key barriers to oral healthcare in Bangladesh include a low dentist-to-population ratio, high treatment costs, lack of national oral health programs, and inadequate dental services in rural areas. Many individuals in low-income communities resort to unqualified practitioners, leading to improper treatments and worsening chronic conditions. Furthermore, oral healthcare is not integrated into primary healthcare systems, and there is minimal government funding for preventive initiatives. Global oral health inequities share common structural challenges such as poverty, weak healthcare systems, and low prioritization of oral health on national health agendas. However, successful interventions from various countries provide valuable insights. Water fluoridation programs in developed nations have significantly reduced dental caries, while community health worker (CHW) models in India and Brazil have improved access to oral health services in underserved populations. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes preventive and community-based interventions as a means to address oral health disparities. This paper recommends a multi-level strategy to reduce oral health inequalities, including policy reforms, expanded roles for CHWs in oral health education and service delivery, increased investment in preventive measures, and the integration of oral health into Universal Health Coverage (UHC) frameworks. Additionally, leveraging digital health technologies for education and service delivery can play a crucial role in reducing disparities. By adopting a comprehensive and globally informed approach, policymakers in Bangladesh can develop sustainable solutions to improve oral health outcomes in low-income communities and mitigate long-term health and economic burdens.
References
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Keywords
Oral health disparities, public health policies, preventive strategies, low-income communities, Bangladesh, global oral health interventions.
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