RFM Suhel – Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka Latest News
A staggering 67% of children entering schools in the Nuwara Eliya district after their early childhood years suffer from poor oral health and tooth decay, according to Maskeliya Divisional Medical Officer of Health, Dr. M.H.A.M. Irshad.
Dr. Irshad made this statement during an oral health and dental care awareness exhibition recently held at the Maskeliya Medical Officer of Health office, in observance of World Oral Health Day on March 20.
This concerning situation was revealed through a clinical survey conducted a few years ago and is particularly prevalent in the Ambagamuwa, Maskeliya, and Bogawantalawa Health Medical Officers’ Divisions. The exhibition is part of ongoing programs aimed at preventing poor oral health among children. This year marked the fourth edition of the exhibition, featuring early childhood development centers showcasing their creative projects and promoting healthy oral hygiene habits.
Dr. Irshad emphasized that raising awareness among children and parents through initiatives like this could reduce poor oral health levels by approximately 60%.
Around 36 early childhood development centers in the Maskeliya Division participated by submitting their creations. The program was jointly organized by the Oral Health Unit of the Nuwara Eliya District Health Services Directorate and the School Dental Therapy Unit of the Maskeliya Health Medical Office. Attendees included the Assistant Divisional Secretary of Norwood Division, Dental Officer of the Nuwara Eliya District Health Directorate D.N. Randeniya, Medical Officer of Health M.H.A.M. Irshad, Medical Officer of Health Irushi Chanika, and other officials.
