Medical Journal Answers The Call

What’s the most prevalent chronic illness among children?

If you answered asthma, you’re a distant second to early childhood caries (ECC). In fact, ECC strikes five times as many children as does asthma.

The Journal of the American Academy of Physician Assistants (AAPA) has launched a campaign to bridge the gap between medical and oral health care.

Wanda Gonsalves, MD associate dean for resident inclusion and diversity education, associate professor in the Department of Family Medicine, and medical director of the PA program at the Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston says “Oral health has been called the “low-hanging fruit of prevention” for good reason. As health care providers, we can quickly and easily help bridge the gap in care for the millions who seek medical care but lack dental care.”

She goes on to state “Of course, this isn’t just about early childhood caries. Oral health is about the associated oral systemic linkages….as well as recognition of oral lesions, including the early detection of cancer. It’s about the prevention of edentulousness in older patients and the promotion of good nutrition.”

Dr. Gonsalves concludes by making the important connection between oral systemic health and our health care system. “Consider the impact of an unhealthy mouth and teeth on employment prospects, mental health, and overall well-being.

The bottom line is, whether you see pediatric patients, pregnant patients, seniors, or anyone in between, this is a very relevant issue for you.”

I urge all my readers to subscribe to the AAPA’s free newsletter.