Our Bureau
SHILLONG/TURA, March 20: Focus shifted to improving oral health with deliberations and awareness on its importance at Bharat Nirman Rajeev Gandhi Sewa Kendra Building, Mawdiangdiang, where the World Oral Health Day was observed.
The programme was chaired by Dental Surgeon of Smit PHC, Dr I Mylliemngap, while the welcome speech was delivered by Dr B Kanti, District Nodal Officer of National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) and National Tobacco Control Programme (NTCP), East Khasi Hills.
This year’s theme for Oral Health Day was ‘A Happy Mouth is a Happy Body’.
A health talk and awareness on the importance of oral health was given by Dr N Kharumnuid, Dental Officer at NEIGRIHMS.
The programme was attended by dental surgeons from various facilities of East Khasi Hills, schoolchildren, staff from Mawryngkneng Block and executive members of Dorbar Shnong Mawkasiang. Oral screening was conducted and gifts were distributed among the participants of the programme.
Meanwhile, the occasion was also commemorated with enthusiasm at the recently inaugurated Urban Health and Wellness Centre in Dorambok, under the Mellim Primary Health Centre, located in the Rerapara C&RD Block, South West Garo Hills, on Wednesday.
Themed ‘A Happy Mouth is… A Happy Body,’ the event was organised by the National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) of South West Garo Hills. The occasion witnessed the participation of various Medical and Health Officers from South West Garo Hills, including Dr H Barman, the District Medical and Health Officer.
Additionally, health workers, Nokma (headman) of Dorambok village, PT Sangma, local residents, beneficiaries under Mellim PHC, school students, and teachers attended the programme despite the inclement weather.
The event featured a range of activities aimed at promoting oral health and overall well-being. These included non-communicable disease screening, ophthalmic screening, distribution of dental kits, dental screening, and awareness sessions on malaria led by Dr Lydia Marak, District Malaria Officer. Furthermore, engaging activities such as quiz competitions, dancing, and singing competitions were organised, with prizes awarded to the winners.
Dental Surgeon and District Nodal Officer of the Oral Health Programme, Dr Cornellius R Marak, delivered the keynote address. He emphasised the pivotal role of oral health in maintaining overall health and wellness. Dr Marak underscored the significance of oral hygiene practices and encouraged attendees to prioritize oral health maintenance.
Expressing gratitude, the Nokma of Dorambok village expressed gratitude to the medical team for organising such impactful programmes in the district. He conveyed that the community eagerly anticipates future initiatives aimed at enhancing health and well-being.