Introduction
The nutritional landscape in the WHO Western Pacific Region is undergoing significant changes, driven largely by globalization. While this trend has made processed foods more accessible and affordable, it often comes at the cost of our health. This article explores the implications of these dietary shifts, particularly focusing on sugar consumption and its effects on oral health.
Background
In the WHO Western Pacific Region, our diets are rapidly evolving. Globalization has led to the widespread availability and aggressive marketing of processed foods, many of which do not align with healthy dietary guidelines. Unfortunately, these products are typically high in unhealthy ingredients, such as saturated fats, trans fats, salt, and free sugars, contributing to various forms of malnutrition and increasing the prevalence of diet-related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
The consequences of these dietary changes are alarming. Sugars, particularly, represent empty calories that are frequently hidden in processed foods and beverages. Over the past two decades, the health burden associated with sugary drinks has nearly tripled, reaching 52.3 disability-adjusted life years per 100,000 in 2023.
Excess sugar consumption is a primary driver of obesity, diabetes, and significantly, oral diseases. Currently, more than 960 million people in the Western Pacific Region are affected by oral health issues. Tooth decay is particularly prevalent, especially among children. Untreated dental caries can lead to pain, infections, difficulties with eating and sleeping, stunted growth, missed school days, and diminished overall well-being.
This upcoming webinar will explore the connection between sugar consumption and oral health by presenting the latest regional data and sharing effective strategies and case studies from various countries. The objective is to empower Member States to take decisive actions aimed at reducing sugar intake.
This webinar aligns with global nutrition and diet-related NCD targets (WHA 65.6, WHA 66.10) and subsequent revisions (WHA 78.24, WHA 72(11)), alongside the Western Pacific Regional Implementation Plan for the Global Strategy and Action Plan on Oral Health (WPR/RC73.R3). By fostering evidence-based discussions and facilitating the sharing of experiences among countries, the webinar aims to raise awareness about the risks of high free sugar intake and to promote coordinated actions towards healthier diets and improved oral health across the Region.
Moderator: Ms Xi Yin, Acting Coordinator of Nutrition and Food Safety, Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control (DPC), WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific
Presentations:
- Sugar intake and oral health: An overview of evidence
- Synergistic strategies: Multisectoral actions to accelerate progress in tackling sugar intakes and oral diseases
- Country case studies in advancing sugar reduction actions
Organizer: Co-led by DPC’s Nutrition and Food Safety and Noncommunicable Diseases units
Speakers:
- Ms Roslinda @ Zakiah bt. Kangan, Ministry of Health, Malaysia
- Ms Priscilla Totorea Hiele, Ministry of Health and Medical Services, Solomon Islands
- Dr Sisilia Fusi Fifita, Ministry of Health, Tonga
- Dr Hyewon Lee, Seoul National University
- Professor Shuguo Zheng, Peking University – WHO Collaborating Centre for the Research and Training in Preventive Dentistry, China
- Ms Xi Yin, Dr Yuriko Harada and Dr Ng See Hoe, WHO Regional Office for the Western Pacific
Conclusion
This webinar represents a crucial step in addressing the pressing challenges posed by increased sugar consumption and its impact on oral health. By sharing insights and strategies, participants will be better equipped to foster healthier dietary practices across the Western Pacific Region, ultimately improving community health outcomes.
