Papua New Guinea's Oral Health Crisis Escalates, Urgent Action Needed, Says PMGH Dental Officer

In a stark warning, Dr. Kalen Karapen, dental officer at Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH), has raised concerns over the "alarming" surge in oral diseases across Papua New Guinea, attributing the trend to unhealthy dietary choices.

Speaking at the World Oral Health Day commemoration last week, Dr. Karapen urged the public to take heed and reduce their consumption of highly processed foods and sugary drinks, which are known contributors to oral health issues.

Dr. Karapen revealed troubling statistics from 2023, indicating a significant rise in oral cancer cases, ranging from 120 to 130 at PMGH's dental clinic services alone. She emphasized that these figures only represent a portion of the total cases, as other clinics also handle oral cancer cases, underscoring the gravity of the situation.

Highlighting the root causes of oral diseases, Dr. Karapen identified dental decay, gum diseases, trauma, and oral cancer as the primary concerns affecting a large segment of the population. She pointed out that processed foods and excessive sugar consumption are major contributors to dental decay and gum diseases, which were once predominantly seen in older generations but are now increasingly affecting younger individuals due to shifting dietary patterns.

Moreover, Dr. Karapen highlighted the prevalence of trauma in urban areas, particularly linked to behavioral habits such as high alcohol consumption and alcohol-related violence. She noted that oral cancer cases are on the rise, with a significant proportion of patients having a history of betel nut chewing, heavy alcohol consumption, and smoking.

Despite the concerning trends, Dr. Karapen emphasized that these oral diseases are preventable, urging the public to prioritize regular dental checkups and adopt healthier lifestyles. She emphasized the importance of a controlled diet, advocating for reduced sugar intake and a shift towards consuming more organic foods as crucial preventive measures against oral health issues.

The revelations by Dr. Karapen underscore the urgent need for concerted efforts to address the oral health crisis in Papua New Guinea, with a focus on promoting healthier dietary habits and improving access to dental care services across the nation.

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