The annual state review meeting of the National Oral Health Programme and oral cancer screening training was held at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima on September 10 and the 11th.
DIMAPUR — The annual state review meeting of the National Oral Health Programme (NOHP), along with an oral cancer screening orientation and hands-on training programme, was held at Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK) on September 10 and the 11th.
Organised by the Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation in collaboration with the Dental Department, NHAK, and the Department of Health & Family Welfare, the programme was supported by TANUH–AI Centre of Excellence, Department of Electrical Communication Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Biocon Foundation and Foundation of Head & Neck Oncology.
The inaugural session was held on September 10 at the Auditorium Hall, NHAK, with Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare, Kevilenuo Angami, attending as the special guest.
Addressing the gathering, Angami highlighted the importance of oral health as an integral component of general health, stating that it remains a relatively neglected aspect of healthcare in the state. She stressed the need for comprehensive strategies focusing on awareness, prevention, screening, early detection, accurate diagnosis, timely referral and appropriate management of oral diseases, including dental caries, periodontal diseases and oral cancer.
Expressing concern over the rising incidence of oral cancer, she identified tobacco consumption—particularly smokeless tobacco—betel-quid chewing, excessive alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene and persistent viral infections, including Human Papillomavirus (HPV), as among the risk factors contributing to the disease.
Referring to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS-2), Angami noted the substantial prevalence of tobacco use among adults.
She also cited the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), 2019, which reported a high proportion of tobacco use among children aged 13–15 years.
She cautioned that the prevailing burden of head and neck cancers and other malignancies could place increasing pressure on the state’s healthcare resources over the next 10–15 years unless preventive and promotive measures are undertaken on a war footing.
Emphasising the importance of early and accurate diagnosis, Angami stated that all dental surgeons posted at various health facilities should possess adequate knowledge and a thorough understanding of diagnostic and biopsy procedures.
She expressed gratitude to the Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation, particularly Dr. Keduovinuo and her team, for their efforts in organising the programme and facilitating resources to enhance the knowledge and skills of dental surgeons in performing biopsy procedures at their respective health units.
Angami further underscored the importance of collaboration between the healthcare system and committed partners in strengthening the capacity of healthcare professionals and improving patient care.
Urging dental surgeons across the state to make the best use of the training opportunity, she encouraged them to actively participate in the hands-on sessions, share experiences, learn from one another and apply the knowledge and skills acquired at their respective health units.
She stated that strengthening diagnostic capabilities would contribute significantly to early detection, timely intervention, appropriate referral and better patient outcomes.
She also called for renewed commitment and professional preparedness to strengthen dental healthcare services and address the growing burden of oral diseases.
The inaugural session featured a welcome address by Managing Director, NHAK, Dr. Ruutuou Sorhie.
Special remarks were delivered by Principal Director, Dr. Keveduyi Theyo; Director (Dental), Dr. I Arenla Walling; and Managing Trustee, Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation, Dr. Toshevi Keditsu Sema.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Neingutunuo Angami, Senior Dental Surgeon, NHAK.