This chapter explores the intersection between lifestyle diseases and oral health and advocates for integrating oral health into primary health care (PHC). In resource-constrained settings, the oral health disease burden is intensified by a lack of access to dental services, high costs and low awareness of preventative measures. The chapter proposes a comprehensive approach incorporating task-sharing strategies that expand access and link oral health with other sectors. Health care workers (HCWs) play a pivotal role in influencing behaviours. Underpinned by the Health Belief Model (HBM), HCWs’ role in driving positive behaviour change can be explained. This chapter highlights the significance of multisectoral collaboration, integrating oral health into broader public health programming to address the root causes of poor oral health. Policy adaptation, resource allocation and sustained cross-sectoral collaboration are critical to the integration of oral health into PHC. This chapter provides examples of integration that will lead to sustainable patient-centred health systems that prioritise prevention, enhance health equity and improve health outcomes.

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The Role of Health Care Providers in Preventing Lifestyle Disorders

  • Sanjana Bhardwaj,
  • Latasha Treger Slavin

摘要

This chapter explores the intersection between lifestyle diseases and oral health and advocates for integrating oral health into primary health care (PHC). In resource-constrained settings, the oral health disease burden is intensified by a lack of access to dental services, high costs and low awareness of preventative measures. The chapter proposes a comprehensive approach incorporating task-sharing strategies that expand access and link oral health with other sectors. Health care workers (HCWs) play a pivotal role in influencing behaviours. Underpinned by the Health Belief Model (HBM), HCWs’ role in driving positive behaviour change can be explained. This chapter highlights the significance of multisectoral collaboration, integrating oral health into broader public health programming to address the root causes of poor oral health. Policy adaptation, resource allocation and sustained cross-sectoral collaboration are critical to the integration of oral health into PHC. This chapter provides examples of integration that will lead to sustainable patient-centred health systems that prioritise prevention, enhance health equity and improve health outcomes.