Shillong: The National Oral Health Programme in collaboration with the National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP) commemorated the “World Oral Health Day” on March 20, 2021 at a function held at the premises of the KJP Assembly Conference complex, Shillong. Ram Kumar, Mission Director, NHM attendee the occasion as chief guest and I Laloo, Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, as the guest of honour.
The theme for this year’s World Oral Health Day is “Be proud of your mouth because good Oral Health can help you live a longer, healthier life.”
During his inaugural address, Ram Kumar stated that due to negligence, importance is not given to oral health which in turn plays a crucial role in developing all kinds of sickness without one’s knowledge. He stressed the need to build up good habits from a very young age which will play a pivotal role in maintaining a healthy lifestyle throughout one’s adult life. Kumar urged the students present during the programme to distance themselves from bad habits and to also pass on the message of practicing good habits in order to achieve good oral health.
I Laloo, Deputy Commissioner, East Khasi Hills, stated that oral health is the least talked about aspect of a person’s overall health. She stated that in Meghalaya, consumption of betel nut is part of one’s culture and identity and therefore people tend to abuse the consumption by having it in large amount, this gradually leads to poor oral health, she suggested the people consume it in moderation so as not to hamper their oral health. She also added that young students should spread the message and awareness to protect the overall health of the community at large.
During the day, a speech on Oral Health & its significance was given by Dr N Mawrie, Senior Dental Surgeon, Bhoirymbong CHC and a speech on Non Communicable Disease was given by Dr RR Marak, District Nodal Officer, NPCDCS. Others who spoke during the programme were Dr MR. Basaiawmoit, DMHO, East Khasi Hills and Dr B Kanti, District Nodal Officer, NTCP & NOHP.
Earlier, Dr. Y. Phira, Joint DHS MI, flagged off the awareness campaign rally from the Office of the Director of Health Services (DHS), Laitumkhrah and culminated at the premises of KJP Assembly Conference complex, Shillong.
