DIMAPUR: The Annual State Review Meeting of the National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) cum Oral Cancer Screening Orientation and Hands on Training Programme was held on September 10 and 11 at Auditorium Hall, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK).
According to DIPR report, the programme was organised by Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation in collaboration with Dental Department, NHAK and Department of Health & Family Welfare, Nagaland, 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 commenced with an invocation by Dr. Reyosalu Lase, addl. director (Dental). Welcome address was delivered by Dr. Ruutuou Sorhie, Managing Director, NHAK. Special remarks were given by Dr. Keveduyi Theyo, principal director, Dr. I. Arenla Walling, director (Dental), and Dr. Toshevi Keditsu Sema, managing trustee, Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation.
Special guest Kevilenuo Angami, Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department, in her address highlighted that oral health, though integral to general health, remains a neglected aspect of the health spectrum in the State.
She noted that despite the urgent need for comprehensive strategies for prevention, control and management of oral diseases such as dental caries, periodontal diseases and oral cancer, significant gaps persist in awareness, prevention, early detection and treatment.
She expressed concern over the rising incidence of oral cancer, citing risk factors such as tobacco consumption, betel quid chewing, excessive alcohol use, poor oral hygiene and persistent viral infections including HPV.
Referring to Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS 2) and Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) 2019, she said the high prevalence of tobacco use among adults and youth is alarming and could lead to an overwhelming cancer burden in the next 10-15 years unless preventive measures are undertaken urgently.
Angami stressed the need for a comprehensive approach focusing on awareness, prevention, screening, early detection, accurate diagnosis, timely referral and appropriate management. She urged dental surgeons across the State to equip themselves with adequate knowledge of diagnostic and biopsy procedures, and to actively participate in the hands on training to strengthen diagnostic capabilities for better patient outcomes.
She expressed gratitude to Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation, particularly Dr. Keduovinuo and team, for their initiative in enhancing the skills of dental surgeons. She said such collaborations demonstrate the importance of strengthening healthcare capacity and improving patient care.
The programme was chaired by Dr. Neingutunuo Angami, Sr. Dental Surgeon, NHAK, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. I. Simon Sumi, Dy. Director (Dental) & SNO (NTCP).
