Evaluation of remineralization potential of bioactive glass varnishes in white spot lesions: a comparative in vitro study

Thursday, July 31, 2025

White spot lesions represent the first clinical sign of dental caries and can be reversed using various remineralizing agents. This study aimed to synthesize different bioactive glass varnishes and assess their remineralizing effects on white spot lesions compared to fluoride varnish and a synthesized nanosilver fluoride varnish. Seventy-two extracted human teeth were used, divided into seven groups with varying varnish compositions. Statistical analysis using one-way and repeated measures ANOVA showed that the nanosilver-containing bioactive glass varnish (Group E) had the highest mineral gain percentage, followed by fluoride-containing bioactive glass (Group D) and nanosilver fluoride (Group F). Scanning electron microscopy revealed the development of new crystals in these groups, with bioactive glass varnishes showing comparable remineralizing efficacy to fluoride varnishes. The fluoride and nanosilver-containing bioactive glass varnishes demonstrated higher remineralizing potential compared to the standard fluoride varnish and nearly the same effect of the nanosilver fluoride varnish. Dental caries is the leading cause of dental pain and a chronic infectious disease, involving demineralization and remineralization processes. The white spot lesions, the earliest phase of enamel demineralization, can be repaired through remineralization. Bioactive glass materials, when exposed to body fluids, release calcium and phosphate ions, forming amorphous calcium phosphate (HA) and eventually hydroxyapatite (HA). Incorporating fluoride and silver nanoparticles into bioactive glass enhances remineralization activity, with silver nanoparticles showing superior bactericidal and anti-inflammatory properties. This study synthesizes bioactive glass varnishes and evaluates their remineralizing effects, highlighting the importance of bioactive glass in remineralizing dental caries.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

PAHO/WHO partners with Belize in a smoke-free initiative in Latin America

Belize has been selected as one of four countries to participate in a landmark initiative to promote smoke-free and emission-free Latin America, led by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies and the Ministry of Health and Wellness (MoHW). This initiative aims to address the public health challenges of tobacco use and exposure, while reinforcing global commitments to public health and sustainability. Over the course of a week (July 28-31, 2025), in collaboration with the NDACC of the MoHW, a series of activities were held to build capacity, foster collaboration, and support the implementation of tobacco control policies across sectors. Delegates from Belize, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Nicaragua joined these activities, exploring strategies to create smoke-free spaces, sharing best practices, and discussing challenges and opportunities for tobacco control. Data shared highlighted the importance of smoke-free environments for health, economic development, and environmental sustainability. The intersectoral workshop attracted a wide range of stakeholders, including health authorities, ministries, and key sectors, demonstrating the benefits of smoke-free policies. The international workshop brought together delegations from the participating countries, allowing for exchange of experiences and discussions on strengthening laws and policies. The technical cooperation of PAHO/WHO focused on advancing the WHO FCTC, particularly Article 8, which pertains to smoke-free environments. The week-long series of activities concluded with renewed commitment to achieving smoke-free and emission-free environments. Through the implementation of this collaborative initiative, Belize and its regional partners are taking a vital step toward a healthier, cleaner, and tobacco-free future.

Labels: PAHO

19th meeting of the Regional Certification Commission for Polio Eradication of the Americas (RCC) celebrated between 26 June and 11 July 2025.

Between 26 June and 11 July 2025, the 19th Meeting of the Regional Certification Commission for Polio Eradication of the Americas (RCC) was held online, with the objectives of reviewing the polio situation in the Region, discussing and validating 2024 annual reports, providing recommendations for the completion of the Global Action Plan (GAP) III, updating the regional polio outbreak risk assessment, and updating immunization coverage. The review assessed the risk of polio circulation in cases of importation or emergence, with 3 countries at very high risk, 13 at high risk, 11 at medium risk, and 17 at low risk. Regional polio immunization coverage experienced a slight decline from 2023 to 2024, with 89% of IPV1, 84% of IPV2, and 86% of Polio3. Despite this small change, all countries except one have introduced the recommended second IPV dose. Surveillance performance declined from 2023 to 2024, with an AFP rate of 1,38 per 100,000 children, below the target of 1.0 per 100,000. There remain significant risks of missing polio cases due to surveillance gaps at national and subnational levels. As we approach global eradication and certification, adherence to surveillance standards will become increasingly important. In conclusion, Dr. Arlene King, Chair of the RCC, emphasized the critical role of containment in polio eradication, stating that the RCC acknowledges advances in containment but stresses continued efforts to complete the process. Some recommendations were made to countries.

Labels: PAHO

Professional biofilm management in supportive periodontal therapy—a longitudinal study of RC vs. AP effectiveness

Wednesday, July 30, 2025

Professional mechanical biofilm reduction is a cornerstone of supportive periodontal therapy (SPT) for periodontitis. This study evaluated the effectiveness of two methods—rotating polishing rubber cups (RCs) and air-polishing (AP) devices—in periodontitis patients. Including 430 patients with average age 60.7 years, the study found that both methods were similarly effective in stabilizing or improving periodontal sites with PPD ≥ 5 mm. However, AP showed greater advantage in preventing PPD ≥ 5 mm deterioration in molars with furcation involvement, while RC interventions were more effective in preventing deterioration in these sites. The study highlights that both methods are effective in maintaining periodontal stability, though RC may be more favorable in specific cases. The results emphasize the importance of individualized interventions, particularly in complex root anatomy, and suggest that repeated subgingival AP application is clinically safe and effective. The study was conducted over a 5-year period, with SPT sessions once a year, and involved a comprehensive analysis of clinical parameters like PPD, furcation involvement, BOP, and dental status. All data were collected by experienced specialists following institutional guidelines.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

PAHO’s Virtual Campus for Public Health grows to 4 million users

The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) has surpassed its course registration limit of 4 million users on its Virtual Campus for Public Health (VCPH) platform, highlighting its role as a vital tool for training health personnel in the Region of the Americas. The Virtual Campus offers free, open-access courses in Spanish, English, Portuguese, and French, with participants completing courses, passing evaluations, and responding to the quality survey to receive a certification. Gabriel Listovsky, Head of the Virtual Campus Special Program at PAHO, noted that the platform’s growth reflects the Organization's commitment to building health personnel's capacity, particularly in a context where lifelong learning and equitable access to knowledge are essential for universal health. In recent years, the VCPH has expanded with specific learning pathways integrating courses, seminars, and resources to strengthen public health competencies. There are three pathways available: Regulation of Medicines and Health Technologies, Better Care for Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs), and Digital Health. Beyond self-managed courses, the PAHO Campus also provides tutor-led activities, communities of practice, and supplementary materials like guides, presentations, and literature. The platform launched a mobile application for offline access. The majority of users are health care workers, with 69% being women, and half working in hospitals while 36% in health centers or primary health care facilities. The Organization emphasizes expanding the Virtual Campus to reach more health workers and students in underserved areas, alongside promoting the responsible use of AI in health education. Visit the PAHO Virtual Campus for Public Health to explore online educational options.

Labels: PAHO

PAHO and the Dutch Caribbean – Forward Together

In a significant milestone for regional health cooperation, Dr. Gabriel Vivas Francesconi, PAHO/WHO Representative for Trinidad and Tobago and the Dutch Caribbean, has visited all six Dutch Caribbean islands, marking a pivotal step in deepening PAHO/WHO’s technical cooperation and reaffirming its commitment to equitable health development across the region. His visits to Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Aruba highlight the importance of building bridges between PAHO/WHO and each island, emphasizing a shared vision for resilience, equity, and innovation in public health. These visits focus on reviewing the 2025 Biennial Work Plan, exploring multi-country strategies for technical cooperation in Bonaire, Saba, and Sint Eustatius, and strengthening ties with the Dutch Ministry of Health and Public Health Agency, particularly in mental health, substance use, and climate resilience. The PAHO/WHO TTO team also engaged in high-level discussions with government officials, public health leaders, and healthcare providers in Saba and Sint Eustatius, highlighting the importance of service delivery, referral systems, and infrastructure development. In Aruba, the delegation met with newly elected officials, including The Honorable Dr. Melvin Wyatt-Ras, Minister of Public Health, Social Affairs, Elderly Care and Addiction Management, and the Minister of Kingdom Relations, Education, Youth Innovation and Sports, focusing on finalizing the Country Cooperation Strategy and discussing mental health in schools, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), and health and sports. The visit in Aruba also builds on the October 2024 National Stakeholder Consultation, which brought together government departments, UN agencies, and civil society to shape Aruba’s CCS for 2025–2030. Additionally, Dr. Vivas’ earlier visit to Bonaire in September 2024 laid groundwork for the Dutch Caribbean’s Transition Plan for a “Healthy Bonaire,” focusing on healthy life, healthy living environment, and health protection.

Labels: PAHO

Impact of ISB material and angulation on digital implant impression accuracy: PEEK vs. Titanium, 0° vs. 30°.

Intraoral scanners (IOS) have revolutionized implant dentistry, offering a quicker, more efficient, and patient-friendly alternative to traditional impression methods. Digital impressions using IOS technology are increasingly common, providing significant advantages over conventional techniques, such as reduced time, enhanced comfort, and preventing material distortion. However, accuracy depends on factors including ISB material and angulation. The study evaluated the combined effect of ISB material (PEEK vs. Titanium) and angulation (0° vs. 30°) on trueness and precision of digital impressions. A factorial design was used to assess these factors, and results showed that ISB configuration significantly influenced trueness (P < 0.001) and precision (P < 0.001). PEEK ISBs demonstrated higher trueness and precision than Titanium ISBs, with PEEK 30° showing the highest trueness and PEEK 0° the best precision. Angulation did not significantly affect trueness for Titanium ISBs. The study highlights that both ISB material and angulation are critical factors, with PEEK consistently outperforming Titanium. Clinicians should consider these factors when selecting materials and IOSs for optimal accuracy. The present study aimed to assess the impact of ISB material and angulation on digital impression accuracy, leading to significant findings on their combined effect.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Orthodontic treatment significantly improves gingival symmetry in patients with mild anterior crowding and skeletal Class I malocclusion.

The study investigates the effects of orthodontic treatment on gingival morphology symmetry in patients with mild anterior crowding and skeletal Class I malocclusion. Using digital intraoral scans, the researchers measured parameters such as mean deviation distance (MDD), root mean square (RMS), and percentage within tolerance. Significant statistical differences were observed in these measurements before and after orthodontic treatment, with a p-value < 0.001. No significant differences were found between the post-orthodontic group and the control group in most gingival symmetry parameters. However, a statistically significant difference was observed in the changes of MDD and RMS across tooth positions. Orthodontic treatment enhanced gingival contour symmetry in patients with mild anterior crowding and skeletal Class I malocclusion. A comparison of the gingival morphology symmetry in anterior teeth between post-orthodontic patients and healthy individuals revealed no statistically significant differences. This study was approved by the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee of Stomatology Hospital of Fujian Medical University (approval no. 2024-14). A smile is a reflection of coordinated facial movements, and achieving an aesthetically pleasing smile primarily requires consideration of facial aesthetics, which enables dental professionals to develop a treatment approach from the aesthetic perspective. Psychological and anthropological studies show that symmetrical faces are generally perceived as attractive and healthy [1]. Although facial symmetry enhances attractiveness, smile symmetry plays a more critical role in aesthetic perception. Studies show that a symmetrical smile enhances aesthetic resonance by reducing visual tension, while slight facial asymmetry adds charm through its personalized characteristics. Therefore, smile symmetry contributes more to overall aesthetic appeal and pleasure than facial symmetry [2]. A beautiful and symmetrical smile results from the harmonious integration of facial aesthetic factors [3] and oral aesthetic factors [4], with oral symmetry playing a decisive role in the visual appeal of a smile [5,6,7]. Darby’s study demonstrated that oral symmetry can significantly enhance the beauty and pleasantness of a smile, even when there are slight asymmetries in other facial areas [8]. Similarly, well-aligned teeth and symmetric gingival morphology are considered key factors in enhancing the harmony of a smile [9,10,11,12,13]. In oral aesthetics research, Pham and Nguyen [14] further confirmed that symmetry in gingival morphology significantly impacts the visual attractiveness of a smile. Zhang [15] indicated that the dynamic symmetry of the gingival contour during smiling greatly influences the perception of gingival aesthetic parameters. Collectively, these studies highlight the crucial role of gingival symmetry in improving the aesthetic appeal of a smile, which complements overall smile symmetry. In orthodontic treatment, the alignment of teeth and aesthetic improvement in patients with malocclusion are often the primary concerns of both clinicians and patients. However, the critical factor of gingival symmetry changes is frequently overlooked. Maxillary anterior crowding (MxAC) is a common issue in orthodontic treatment [16], characterized by labial or buccal displacement of the canines and palatal displacement of the lateral incisors [17]. This type of malocclusion is mainly caused by a mismatch between tooth size and arch length, not only leading to functional problems [18] but also significantly impacting the patient’s aesthetic appeal [19]. Orthodontic treatment can typically improve the symmetry of tooth alignment and enhances overall aesthetics [20]. However, existing studies indicate that in some orthodontic patients, after teeth are properly aligned, the visual aesthetic balance may be compromised due to asymmetry of the gingival margin in either the vertical or horizontal planes [21, 22]. This asymmetry can reduce the aesthetic outcome of orthodontic treatment and negatively affect patient satisfaction. At the same time, we understand that laser therapy has potential in reshaping gingival contours and enhancing gingival symmetry [23, 24]. Currently, most research on smile aesthetics in malocclusion patients focuses on the impact of orthodontic treatment on tooth symmetry, while the symmetry and changes in gingival morphology before and after orthodontic treatment have not received sufficient attention. With advancements in digital oral scanning technology, obtaining high-precision and reproducible 3D models of the oral cavity now provides comprehensive three-dimensional data on tooth and gingival morphology [25]. Through reverse engineering techniques and 3D surface matching algorithms, deviation analyses can be conducted to derive three-dimensional symmetry assessments [6, 26,27,28]. A review of the current literature indicates that there are limited methods or studies available that objectively assess gingival morphological symmetry within the dental arches of orthodontic patients before and after treatment. This study aims to assess changes in gingival morphological symmetry before and after orthodontic treatment in patients with mild anterior crowding and skeletal Class I malocclusion using digital models, to explore the impact of orthodontic treatment on gingival symmetry. The null hypotheses of this study are: (1) There is no significant difference in gingival contour symmetry in patients with mild anterior crowding and skeletal Class I malocclusion before and after orthodontic treatment; and (2) After orthodontic treatment, gingival symmetry in patients with mild anterior crowding is not significantly different from that of individuals with normal occlusion. The current retrospective study was ethically reviewed and approved by the Biomedical Research Ethics Committee of Stomatology Hospital of Fujian Medical University, China (approval no. 2024-14).

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Bahamas strengthens mental health for children with type 1 diabetes through advocacy sessions

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

July 25, 2025, Nassau, The Bahamas - The Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) Country Office for The Bahamas and Turks and Caicos Islands strengthened collaboration with the Bahamas Diabetes Association (BDA) through focused engagement on mental health. On Saturday, July 19, 2025, Dr. Anton Best, a PAHO/WHO Advisor, delivered a presentation on "Mental Health and Wellbeing in Children with Type 1 Diabetes" at a general meeting held at Sybil Strachan Primary School. Dr. Best emphasized the intersection between chronic disease and emotional wellbeing in young persons, drawing from recent results of the 2025 Global School-based Student Health Survey (GSHS), which noted growing public health concerns in The Bahamas regarding mental health, particularly among youth. The session highlighted psychological burdens such as anxiety, social isolation, and diabetes-related distress. Dr. Best advocated for early mental health promotion through positive coping strategies, including physical activity, peer support, creative expression, and mindfulness. The presentation was well-received by families and association members, sparking discussions on how to support children navigating the demands of diabetes. Dr. Boisson, the PAHO/WHO Representative for The Bahamas, commended the BDA for its ongoing initiatives, such as the summer camp, and reaffirmed PAHO’s commitment to advancing child health and mental wellbeing through technical cooperation.

Labels: PAHO

Trinidad and Tobago's leaders are leading the way to eliminate lopsoy

The Ministry of Health, the Trinidad and Tobago Medical Association (T&TMA), and the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization Trinidad and Tobago Country Office (PAHO/WHO TTO) have successfully concluded the national Hansen’s Disease Continuing Medical Education seminar series in Trinidad and Tobago on May 13, 2025. This initiative aims to strengthen clinical capacity for diagnosing and managing Hansen’s Disease (Leprosy) across the country. Over 118 health care practitioners from both public and private sectors were trained in the series, conducted in five regions. The format was interactive, involving smaller group sizes, local case studies, and real-time audience engagement through a digital app. This approach made the sessions both practical and impactful, building on the longstanding work of the Hansen’s Disease Control Unit at the Ministry of Health. Participant feedback was positive, with many expressing appreciation for the opportunity to learn a disease they had never encountered firsthand. Dr. Mushtaq Ali Saiyed, the technical lead for the series, emphasized the effectiveness of the training model in boosting clinical competence. Learning assessments revealed a remarkable improvement in knowledge, with post-lecture scores averaging 92%. The closing ceremony featured a keynote address by The Honourable Dr. Rishad Seecheran, Minister in the Ministry of Health, who highlighted the collaboration with PAHO/WHO, which has contributed to effective disease management across all levels of care. This initiative is part of the PAHO Elimination Initiative, aiming to eliminate selected communicable diseases by 2030. With enhanced clinical vigilance, the country is well-positioned to meet its elimination target.

Labels: PAHO

Brazil and PAHO host strategic meeting to strengthen regional health security and reduce global dependency

Sao Paulo, Brazil, 29 July 2025 (PAHO) – In a bid to boost regional health security and reduce dependence on global supply chains, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Brazil’s Ministry of Health hosted a strategic workshop in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on 25 July 2025. The event, facilitated by the Sao Paulo Federation of Industries (FIESP), aimed to expand the availability of essential medicines, vaccines, and other critical health technologies in the Americas. The meeting highlighted PAHO’s Regional Revolving Funds, which pool procurement to ensure countries across the region have access to vaccines, medicines, and health technologies at affordable prices. These funds enable countries to achieve cost savings, saving approximately 50% on vaccines and public health supplies. The initiative has benefited around 180 million people in the region in the last two years, demonstrating its impact. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa emphasized that this partnership will further encourage producers to participate in PAHO’s Revolving Funds and inspire other countries to join the effort. The launch of Brazil’s first RNA Competence Center, led by the Ministry of Health and Embrapii, marks a new initiative to advance messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine technologies, which are critical for pandemic preparedness and rapid vaccine development. This initiative reflects PAHO’s broader strategy to foster regional manufacturing and innovation in health technologies.

Labels: PAHO

PAHO Director Urges Health Equity in Climate Action in the Americas at Global Conference in Brazil

Dr. Barbosa urged countries to prioritize health and equity in climate policy, emphasizing that vulnerable populations bear the brunt of climate impacts. As the Americas face record heat, disease outbreaks, and climate events, Dr. Barbosa called for urgent action to integrate health into climate agendas. During the opening of the 2025 Global Conference on Climate and Health, held in Brasilia, he highlighted the region's challenges, including heatwaves, wildfires, floods, droughts, and hurricanes. He noted that climate change has already devastated regions, with 2024 being the warmest year in the region since 1900, causing heatwaves to be the most deadly climate hazard. He also described the region's suffering, such as 70,000 affected people from wildfires, 5 million impacted by floods, and 1.2 million affected by droughts and malnutrition. Meanwhile, climate-sensitive diseases surged, with dengue cases reaching 13 million and 7,700 deaths. Dr. Barbosa praised the Belém Health Action Plan's approach, which emphasizes health equity, intersectoral collaboration, and social participation.

Labels: PAHO

IPC Gaza Strip Food Insecurity and Malnutrition Alert: Worst-case famine warning for Gaza Strip

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) has issued a Food Insecurity and Malnutrition Alert for the Gaza Strip, highlighting the worst-case scenario of famine and the severe impact of ongoing conflict, mass displacement, and restricted humanitarian access. The IPC warns that famine thresholds are now in place, with widespread starvation and malnutrition driving an increase in hunger-related deaths. The classification’s analytical approach and multi-partner initiative aim to assess food insecurity and acute malnutrition in the Gaza Strip, based on internationally recognized standards. By providing evidence-based analysis, the IPC supports governments, UN agencies, NGOs, and other stakeholders in making informed decisions to address food security and nutrition, with the goal of informing emergency responses and long-term policy planning.

Labels: WHO

Evaluation of Endocan biomarker levels in peri-implant crevicular fluid: a cross-sectional study.

This study evaluates Endocan, an endothelial-derived protein, for its ability to discriminate between healthy and pathological peri-implant tissues and its diagnostic potential in peri-implant disease. A cross-sectional analysis of 62 peri-implant sites from 62 individuals, including 31 healthy sites, was conducted using clinical and radiographic parameters. The PICF was collected using a paper point methodology, and Endocan was quantified via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Statistical analysis included multivariable linear regression models to assess associations between disease status and Endocan levels, adjusting for demographic factors. Results showed that healthy sites had the lowest Endocan levels (643.66 ± 128.49 ng/L), while peri-implantitis sites showed significantly elevated concentrations (841.83 ± 62.72 ng/L, p < 0.001). Peri-implant mucositis sites were not significantly different from healthy sites. Modeling revealed that peri-implantitis correlated with increased Endocan concentrations (B = 187.74, p < 0.001), while peri-implant mucositis showed no significant association. The study suggests that Endocan could serve as a biomarker for peri-implantitis, distinguishing between advanced pathology and mucositis. However, minimal research has examined Endocan concentrations in peri-implant tissues, and its potential for distinguishing between different stages of peri-implant disease remains unexplored. The null hypothesis assumes no significant variation in Endocan between healthy and pathological peri-implant locations. To assess and compare Endocan values in peri-implant crevicular fluid (PICF) between healthy and diseased peri-implant locations. To assess whether Endocan levels differ between peri-implant mucositis and peri-implantitis.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

ATP6V0A4 as a novel prognostic biomarker and potential therapeutic target in oral squamous cell carcinoma

Monday, July 28, 2025

Increasing evidence indicates that the dysregulation of ATP6V0A4 is linked to aggressive behaviors in various types of cancer, including oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). This study integrated data from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database to identify key molecular mechanisms. Using univariate Cox regression and LASSO regression, a prognostic model was constructed, complemented by random forest algorithms to identify core genes. A multi-omics analysis strategy was employed, including pan-cancer expression profiling, protein atlas validation, GO/KEGG enrichment, and clinicopathological feature correlation analysis, as well as tumor immune microenvironment assessment and immunotherapy response prediction models. Experimental validation involved RT-qPCR to measure ATP6V0A4 expression in OSCC cell lines and plasmid transfection to establish overexpression models. The study found that low ATP6V0A4 expression is significantly associated with poor prognosis in OSCC patients, with the expression level showing a close correlation with clinical T staging. Additionally, the expression status of ATP6V0A4 is linked to the distribution and function of various immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. In vitro experiments demonstrated that overexpression of ATP6V0A4 suppresses tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. OSCC patients with low ATP6V0A4 expression exhibit higher sensitivity to drugs like GDC0810, GSK591, and MK8776. This discovery provides new insights and potential therapeutic strategies for combination therapy in OSCC. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains one of the most aggressive malignancies with a 5-year survival rate of 55–60% [1], significantly lower than other cancers like breast (89%) and colorectal (65%). With an aging population, its burden is projected to exceed 500,000 cases by 2035. Current protocols include surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, but postoperative complications are severe. Targeted immunotherapies against EGFR and PD-1/PD-L1 pathways have shown preliminary efficacy, but only 15–20% of patients benefit. Therefore, identifying specific molecular markers and mechanisms is needed for precision medicine in OSCC. V-ATPase is a multisubunit complex with a cytosolic catalytic domain (V1) and a transmembrane proton channel domain (V0). The V0 domain contains four a-subunit isoforms that regulate enzyme localization in different cellular membranes. ATP6V0A4, encoding the a4 isoform, exhibits tissue-specific expression, mainly in the kidney and epididymis. It mediates the polarized localization of V-ATPase in plasma membrane of renal α-intercalated cells, contributing to H⁺ secretion in renal tubules [7]. Recent studies show ATP6V0A4 not only acidifies acidic organelles like lysosomes and endosomes but also plays roles in vital processes such as transport, protein processing, and cotransport, as well as physiological functions like urinary acidification and bone metabolism regulation [9]. Emerging evidence highlights dual functions of ATP6V0A4 in tumor progression. In breast cancer models, high ATP6V0A4 expression was observed in invasive MDA-MB-231 cells, while siRNA-mediated gene silencing suppressed their invasive capacity [7]. Treatment with specific V-ATPase inhibitors also inhibited invasive phenotype in these cells [10]. Mechanistic studies in metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma showed that downregulation of ATP6V0A4 suppressed proton pump activity and extracellular acidification rate, leading to dual suppression of tumor growth and metastasis [11]. Notably, ATP6V0A4 expression in renal cell carcinoma suggests heterogeneous regulatory patterns across tumor types. These discrepancies may be due to factors like pH homeostasis in the tumor microenvironment, activation of invasion signaling pathways, and reprogramming of cellular energy metabolism. However, the mechanism and role of ATP6V0A4 in OSCC remain poorly understood. This study aims to clarify the role of ATP6V0A4 in OSCC and its underlying mechanisms to provide novel therapeutic targets for this disease. The corresponding clinicopathological characteristics and prognostic information of OSCC patients, including gender, age, and stage, were downloaded from the TCGA GDC database. Samples with primary sites "lip", "hard palate", "gingiva", "base of tongue", "floor of mouth", "other and ill-defined sites in lip, oral cavity and pharynx", "other and ill-defined sites of tongue", and "other and unspecified sites in oral cavity" were selected for analysis. Among them, 32 normal and 397 cancer samples were used. OSCC sequencing data were downloaded from GSE25099, a GPL5175 platform with 79 samples. The R package "limma" was used for DEG analysis. The study found that low ATP6V0A4 expression is significantly associated with poor prognosis, with the expression level showing a close correlation with clinical T staging. The expression status of ATP6V0A4 is linked to the function and distribution of various immune cells in the tumor microenvironment. In vitro experiments indicated that overexpression of ATP6V0A4 suppresses tumor cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. Patients with low ATP6V0A4 expression have higher sensitivity to drugs like GDC0810, GSK591, and MK8776. This discovery provides novel insights and potential therapeutic strategies for combination therapy in OSCC. Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains one of the most aggressive malignancies with a 5-year survival rate of 55–60% [1], significantly lower than other cancers like breast (89%) and colorectal (65%). With an aging population, its burden is projected to exceed 500,000 cases by 2035. Current standard treatment protocols include surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, but postoperative complications are severe. Targeted immunotherapies against EGFR and PD-1/PD-L1 pathways have shown preliminary efficacy, but only 15–20% of patients benefit. Therefore, identifying specific molecular markers and mechanisms is needed for precision medicine in OSCC.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

WHO urges action on hepatitis, declaring D as carcinogenic

Geneva, 28 July 2025 (WHO) – As we mark World Hepatitis Day, WHO highlights the urgent need to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat and reduce liver cancer deaths. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized that every 30 seconds, someone dies from hepatitis-related severe liver disease or liver cancer, underscoring the critical need for rapid action. Viral hepatitis, including types A, B, C, D, and E, are significant causes of acute liver infections. Among these, hepatitis B, C, and D lead to chronic infections, increasing the risk of cirrhosis, liver failure, or liver cancer. However, many infected individuals do not recognize their condition. Hepatitis D, which only affects those infected with hepatitis B, has a two to six-fold higher risk of liver cancer compared to hepatitis B alone. The IARC classified hepatitis D as carcinogenic to humans, marking a crucial step in awareness, screening, and treatment efforts. Dr. Meg Doherty noted WHO’s 2024 guidelines on testing and diagnosis for Hepatitis B and D and their ongoing efforts to monitor clinical outcomes. Treatment options for hepatitis C are improving, but full benefits from reducing liver cirrhosis and cancer deaths require urgent scaling up of hepatitis services, including vaccination, testing, harm reduction, and treatment. The Global Hepatitis Report highlights that while LMICs have strategic plans, integration of hepatitis services remains uneven: 80 countries incorporate hepatitis services into primary health care, 128 into HIV programs, but just 27 integrate hepatitis C services into harm reduction centers.

Labels: PAHO

Brazil and PAHO host strategic meeting to strengthen regional supply of medicines, vaccines, and health technologies

Sao Paulo, Brazil, 28 July 2025 (PAHO) – In a bid to bolster regional health security and curb reliance on global supply chains, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Brazil’s Ministry of Health convened a strategic workshop in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Hosted in collaboration with the Sao Paulo Federation of Industries (FIESP), the event aimed to expand the availability of essential medicines, vaccines, and critical health technologies in the Americas. The meeting emphasized PAHO’s Regional Revolving Funds, which pool procurement to ensure countries across the region have access to vaccines, medicines, and health technologies at affordable prices. Held on 25 July, the workshop also sought to promote the expansion of strategic health products and strengthen regional production capacity. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa highlighted that this partnership will enable more producers to participate in PAHO’s Revolving Funds and inspire other countries to join. The event launched Brazil’s first RNA Competence Center, a initiative led by the Ministry of Health and Embrapii, focusing on advancing mRNA vaccine technologies. This initiative reflects PAHO’s broader strategy to advance regional manufacturing and foster innovation in health technologies. The Regional Revolving Funds, which enable countries to access quality vaccines and public health supplies at affordable prices, have already benefited approximately 180 million people in the region. They have played a key role in combating diseases like HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis, as well as improving immunization coverage and maternal child mortality.

Labels: PAHO

PAHO/WHO convenes journalists to reshape road safety reporting in Latin America

In 2025, journalists from various countries in the Americas participated in a regional workshop on solutions journalism and road safety in Natal, Brazil. Organized by the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), the event supported the Bloomberg Philanthropies Initiative for Global Road Safety. The workshop aimed to transform how traffic incidents are reported, framing them as real, evidence-based solutions rather than tragedies. Traffic deaths in the Americas cause over 145,000 annual deaths and 4.1 million non-fatal injuries, with significant consequences for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. Around the world, countries aim to halve road fatalities by 2030, reducing the current road mortality rate from 14.09 to 6.73 per 100,000 people. Ricardo Pérez Núñez emphasized that each death has 28 injured individuals, highlighting the need for safer, sustainable, inclusive, and equitable transport systems. PAHO/WHO views journalist training as a key pillar for driving road safety progress. The workshop addressed key challenges, promoting a systems-based approach, focusing on individual responsibility toward infrastructure and policies. Solutions included compact urban design, safe public transport, and active mobility. Victor Pavarino noted that traffic injuries are preventable, with a focus on systemic changes rather than just fixing the issue. Matthew Taylor stressed the importance of language in media, highlighting the need to link crashes to broader failures. He also introduced principles of solutions journalism, emphasizing evidence-based reporting on how societies address challenges, not just what went wrong. The event featured a site visit to Natal's new binary traffic system, which reduces risks and improves circulation, and included discussions from journalists and crash victim families.

Labels: PAHO

WHO calls for action on hepatitis, with D classified as carcinogenic, urging governments to scale up services like testing and treatment to combat liver cancer

As we mark World Hepatitis Day, WHO emphasizes the urgent need to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat, with a focus on reducing liver cancer deaths. Viral hepatitis, including types A, B, C, D, and E, are major causes of liver disease, with types B, C, and D leading to chronic infections that significantly increase the risk of cirrhosis and liver cancer. WHO highlights the importance of reducing hepatitis-related severe liver disease and liver cancer, noting that 300 million people globally are affected, with over 1.3 million deaths annually. The IARC classified hepatitis D as carcinogenic, linking it to a two-to-six-fold higher risk of liver cancer than hepatitis B alone. WHO has published guidelines on testing and diagnosis for hepatitis B and D in 2024, and is actively monitoring clinical outcomes for hepatitis D. Treatment options for hepatitis C are effective, while hepatitis D treatment is evolving. However, to achieve WHO's 2030 targets, countries must scale up hepatitis services like vaccination, testing, harm reduction, and treatment into national systems. The Global Hepatitis Report highlights critical gaps in coverage and outcomes. Countries must prioritize domestic investment, integrated services, data, affordable medicines, and stigma reduction. WHO is partnering with Rotary International and the World Hepatitis Alliance to strengthen advocacy, and the campaign "Hepatitis: Let’s break it down" urges action against liver cancer linked to chronic hepatitis.

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Global hunger remains a pressing concern in Africa and western Asia, with rising prevalence in 2024, affecting 307 million and 12.7% of the population. While progress in some regions shows improvement, the overall challenge persists, with 512 million potentially needing more support by 2030

The State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World (SOFI 2025) reports that an estimated 673 million people globally experienced hunger in 2024, a decrease from 8.5 percent in 2023 and 8.7 percent in 2022. However, progress was inconsistent, with hunger continuing to rise in Africa and western Asia, as SOFI estimates show 638–720 million people faced hunger in 2024. Notable improvements include a decline in undernourishment (PoU) in southern Asia and Latin America, where PoU dropped from 7.9% in 2022 to 6.7% in 2024, and 5.1% in Latin America and the Caribbean. However, the decline does not offset the global challenge of hunger, with Africa and western Asia facing higher prevalence, affecting 307 million and 12.7% respectively in 2024. The report highlights that 512 million could be chronically undernourished by 2030, with nearly 60% of those affected in Africa. The FAO, UNICEF, WFP, and WHO warn that the global food price surge, driven by the pandemic and Ukraine conflicts, has worsened food security and nutrition. Despite positive trends in some regions, the overall issue remains a challenge for achieving SDG 2 (Zero Hunger).

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Statement of the Forty-second meeting of the Polio IHR Emergency Committee

The Forty-second meeting of the Emergency Committee under the International Health Regulations (2005) (IHR) on the international spread of poliovirus was convened by the WHO Director-General on 18 June 2025, with committee members and advisers meeting via video conference. The Committee reviewed the data on wild poliovirus (WPV1) and circulating vaccine-derived polioviruses (cVDPV) in the context of the global target of interruption and certification of WPV1 eradication by 2027 and interruption and certification of cVDPV2 elimination by 2029. Technical updates were received about the situation in the following countries: Afghanistan, Angola, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Nigeria, Pakistan, and Papua New Guinea. Since the last meeting, nine new WPV1 cases were reported, one from Afghanistan and eight from Pakistan, totaling 13 cases in 2025. In 2024, 99 WPV1 cases were reported during the whole year, including 25 from Afghanistan and 74 from Pakistan. A total of 275 WPV1 positive environmental samples have been reported in 2025 so far, with 30 from Afghanistan and 245 from Pakistan. In 2024, 741 WPV1 positive environmental samples were reported, including 113 from Afghanistan and 628 from Pakistan. The upward trend in WPV1 cases and environmental detections has persisted in both endemic countries throughout 2024. In Pakistan, this increase has been evident since mid-2023, initially in environmental samples and later in paralytic polio cases, primarily in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Sindh, and Balochistan. In Afghanistan, the rise in WPV1 detections, both in environmental samples and cases during 2024 and 2025, has been concentrated primarily in the South Region. WPV1 transmission in Afghanistan’s East Region has significantly declined during the first half of 2025, indicating enhanced population immunity. The Committee noted with concern the geographic expansion of WPV1 to new provinces and districts in both endemic countries during 2024 and 2025. Notably, Gilgit-Baltistan province in Pakistan reported its first WPV1 case in over eight years, underscoring the continued risk posed by persistent transmission in core reservoir areas. Currently, the most intense WPV1 transmission is occurring in the southern cross-border epidemiological corridor, encompassing Quetta Block (Pakistan) and the South Region (Afghanistan). The Committee also noted the ongoing WPV1 transmission in the epidemiologically critical blocks of Karachi, South KP, and Central Pakistan. The review of molecular epidemiology shows an increase in genetic biodiversity in 2024, necessitating a split of two genetic clusters into eight genetic clusters. Three genetic clusters are active in 2025. The remaining chains of transmission continue to circulate in populations and geographic areas with persistently low immunization coverage, including the bordering districts of the southern and northern epidemiological corridors across the two endemic countries. The genetic data analysis also indicates that WPV1 persisted through the low transmission season (October 2024 to April 2025) within the core reservoirs of Southern Afghanistan, Karachi, Peshawar, and the Quetta Block - posing a risk to achieving Goal 1 of the GPEI strategy by end-2025. Afghanistan and Pakistan continue to implement an intensive and mostly synchronized campaign schedule, with a focus on achieving high vaccination coverage in core reservoirs and ensuring timely, effective response to WPV1 detections in other areas of each country. Afghanistan implemented two nationwide and two sub-national vaccination rounds while Pakistan implemented three nationwide and one sub-national vaccination round in 2025, so far. In Afghanistan, campaigns are being conducted using the site-to-site strategy, with focused efforts to strengthen operational and communication approaches to maximize coverage of target children under this modality. The Committee expressed concern that site-to-site campaigns often fail to reach all children, particularly younger children and girls, which could contribute to a resurgence of WPV1 and its further geographic spread within Afghanistan and beyond. The Committee noted with appreciation the strong leadership and high-level commitment to polio eradication in Pakistan at all levels, including the direct engagement of the Prime Minister, the Federal Minister for Health, and the Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Eradication. The Committee also acknowledged the consistently high reported coverage and Lot Quality Assurance Sampling (LQAS) pass rates at the national and provincial levels. However, the Committee observed variability in campaign quality at the district and sub-district levels, attributed to operational challenges and prevailing insecurity, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan provinces. In addition to seasonal population movements within and between the two endemic countries, the continued return of undocumented migrants from Pakistan to Afghanistan further compounds the challenges faced by the programme. This ongoing displacement heightens the risk of cross-border poliovirus transmission, as well as transmission within both countries. The Committee noted that this risk is being addressed through vaccination at border crossing points and the revision of micro-plans in districts of origin and return. The programme continues to coordinate closely with IOM and UNHCR. The Committee also acknowledged the ongoing coordination between the Afghanistan and Pakistan programmes at both national and sub-national levels and encouraged the continuation of these collaborative efforts. In summary, available data indicate that global WPV1 transmission remains geographically confined to the two endemic countries. However, during 2024 and 2025, there has been geographic spread alongside continued transmission within core reservoir areas in both the endemic countries. In 2025, a total of 67 cVDPV cases have been reported to date, 65 of which are cVDPV2 and two are cVDPV3. No cVDPV1 cases have been reported in 2025. Additionally, 69 environmental samples have tested positive for cVDPV, all of which are type 2. In 2024, a total of 319 cVDPV cases were reported, including 304 cVDPV2, 11 cVDPV1, and 4 cVDPV3 cases. During the same year, 276 environmental samples tested positive for cVDPV, 273 cVDPV2 and three cVDPV3. Since the last meeting of the Emergency Committee, a cVDPV2 outbreak has been reported from Papua New Guinea in the WHO Western Pacific Region.

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The effect of adenoid hypertrophy on growth and development in children aged 7–12: a 15-year study.

Sunday, July 27, 2025

The study analyzed radiographic data from 348 children aged 7–12 years undergoing orthodontic examination, assessing adenoid hypertrophy, growth development, and dental age using panoramic and lateral cephalometric radiographs. Adenoid hypertrophy was identified in 29.8% of patients, with significant differences in growth development levels and dental ages observed in the study group compared to the control group. Key findings indicated higher values in specific radiographic parameters (SNA, SNB, ramus height, face height ratio, and mandibular plane angle) in the study group, while Nolla dental ages were significantly delayed in patients with adenoid hypertrophy. The findings suggest that adenoid hyperplasia may negatively impact growth development, though no significant differences were found in chronological age between study groups. A multidisciplinary approach is recommended to address the effects of adenoid hyperplasia, as it can influence both dental and maxillofacial development. Growth and development are critical in treatment planning, and while some developmental differences exist within the same chronological age, biological age assessments through factors like bone age and dental maturation stages are essential. The study highlights the importance of these factors in evaluating growth and development in children, emphasizing the need for early intervention and comprehensive care.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Malnutrition rates in Gaza surge to alarming levels, with over 74 deaths in July and worsening conditions for children under five, including severe acute malnutrition

The Gaza Strip is experiencing a catastrophic increase in malnutrition, with over 74 deaths in July and a drastic rise in the number of children under five severely malnourished. Over 18% of children under five are acutely malnourished, while nearly one in five children are now in severe acute malnutrition. The situation is rapidly deteriorating, with critical shortages of food, medical supplies, and fuel, pushing the health system to the brink of collapse. The crisis disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, and is fueled by desperate search for food, leading to a significant number of casualties and hindering recovery efforts.

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Clinical evaluation of 3D-printed splints in the treatment of temporomandibular disorders

Saturday, July 26, 2025

A study evaluated the effects of 3D-printed occlusal splints on TMD patients, measuring occlusal time (OT) and asymmetry in occlusal force (AOF) over three months. Key findings showed significant reductions in OT and AOF across four time points, with improvements in joint space, EMG, and VAS scores. The T-scan guided occlusal splint improved occlusal equilibration and TMJ function, while the anterior space decreased and posterior space increased. The T-scan accurately identified abnormal contact points, contributing to better treatment outcomes. Despite controversies, 3D-printed splints improve clinical symptoms by altering occlusion and jaw position. Digital technology enhances manufacturing quality and stability, while intraoral scanning reduces time and improves patient comfort. The study involved 18 TMD patients, with inclusion and exclusion criteria set to ensure accurate results. The T-scan device, used in real-time to assess occlusal contact, provided reliable data for occlusion analysis and treatment adjustment.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Cone-beam computed tomography evaluation of root proximity in orthodontic miniscrew implants and its correlation with interradicular failure

Orthodontic miniscrew anchorage has led to a paradigm shift in orthodontics by reducing unwanted movement of anchoring teeth. The study evaluated root proximity in orthodontic miniscrew implants using CBCT, revealing that 52.4% of miniscrews failed within one month after placement. Chi-square and logistic regression analysis showed a significant correlation between root proximity and miniscrew failure, with 2.1 times higher likelihood in those with root proximity. This study confirms root proximity as a major factor in interradicular miniscrew failure and suggests a novel approach for measuring root proximity in CBCT for predicting failure. Miniscrews, as a widely used TAD, have proven effective for various insertion sites and purposes, with their design and material being well-engineered. The success rate of miniscrews has been consistently stable, with a recent systematic review showing 89.87% in maxilla and 79.24% in mandible. However, their success rate is still relatively low compared to dental implants, necessitating consideration in treatment planning. Clinical studies have investigated factors like root proximity, age, experience, and bone contact, but the measurement was either a distance or a binary classification. The amount of root proximity area was not evaluated in previous studies, and there has been no attempt to assess the relationship between proximity and miniscrew failure.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Impact of different polishing techniques on surface roughness, gloss, and microhardness of zirconium oxide reinforced flowable bulk-fill resin composite: an in vitro study

The evaluation of surface roughness (SR), surface gloss (SG), and microhardness (VMH) of flowable bulk-fill composites reinforced with zirconium oxide fillers showed that the use of these fillers improved mechanical and physical characteristics such as surface roughness, gloss, and microhardness. The impact of material type and polishing system on these properties was significant, with surface roughness being only influenced by the polishing system. Dental resin composites are becoming popular due to their esthetic and environmental benefits, while their polymerization shrinkage is reduced. Bulk-fill composites have advantages in time-saving procedures and improved flowability, which enable easy cavity adaptation. Surface characteristics like roughness, gloss, and microhardness affect durability and clinical outcomes, and proper finishing and polishing techniques are essential for achieving a smooth and aesthetically pleasing surface. The use of different polishing systems and fillers enhances these characteristics, and proper F/P techniques ensure the best surface finish.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Dental Anxiety in Children with and Without Disabilities: A Study in Trinidad and Tobago Reveals Patterns and Interventions

The study investigated whether dental fear and anxiety (DFA) differed among children with and without disabilities in Trinidad and Tobago. It examined the prevalence of moderate and high levels of DFA in children aged 6–18 years, using a cross-sectional survey conducted between July 2022 and February 2023. The sample included 201 parents/caregivers from children with and without disabilities, assessed using the Modified Dental Anxiety Scale (MDAS) and other covariates such as gender, age, ethnicity, accompanying adult, reasons for visits, dental attendance, and child's oral health rating. Results showed that children with disabilities had higher rates of moderate DFA compared to those without, with a significant increase in DFA levels in the 6–12 age group compared to the 13–18 group. Similarly, children with disabilities exhibited higher proportions of moderate anxiety levels than those without. Consistent with prior findings, the study highlighted that DFA is a common issue among children, affecting approximately one-third of young children globally. The findings suggest that dental fear and anxiety techniques can reduce the development and persistence of these conditions. Children with and without disabilities were found to have similar levels of anxiety in caregivers, with higher trait anxiety levels correlating with greater anxiety levels. The study emphasizes the importance of early identification and intervention in children with disabilities, as well as the role of caregivers in supporting their oral health. The study aims to provide insights into the prevalence and management of DFA in children with disabilities and highlights the need for further research in this area.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

24-month randomized controlled clinical trial assessment of surface texture, color stability, and marginal discoloration of sonic-activated bulk-fill resin composite (BFRC) according to USPHS and FDI criteria

The study assessed the surface texture, color stability, and marginal discoloration of sonic-activated bulk-fill resin composite (BFRC) compared to non-sonic-activated BFRC over 24 months, using two evaluation criteria. Sixty restorations each in the Sonicfill 3 and X-tra fill groups were evaluated at baseline, 3, 6, 12, and 24 months. Clinical outcomes were non-significant between the two groups, with all restorations considered clinically successful by USPHS or FDI criteria. The surface texture, color stability, and marginal discoloration of both tested BFRCs were considered clinically successful, either with or without sonic energy. The criteria used were reliable, comparable, and suitable for evaluating RC restorations. The study registered at www.clinicaltrials.gov and has a unique identification number NCT04926883. The current use of resin composites as dental restorations is increasing, with adhesive restorative materials offering minimal invasiveness and preserving tissues. Evidence supports the success of direct and light-polymerized RC restorations in posterior teeth [1]. Their advantages include affordability, longevity, and aesthetic and mechanical properties, which meet patients' increasing aesthetic expectations [2, 3]. Manufacturers improve physical and optical properties of RCs to mimic natural teeth and make handling easier [4]. Despite these improvements, polymerization shrinkage remains a challenge. While there are ideas to reduce this, placing RC materials with a 2-mm layering technique is recommended [1, 5, 6]. However, deep cavity restoration with incremental technique requires time, and postoperative sensitivity may occur [7]. The BFRC was designed to handle a single increment of 4–5 mm for efficiency. Shorter curing times and deeper cure depth can result from optimizing the light-curing composite’s photo-initiator system, reducing layers and minimizing polymerization shrinkage [7, 8]. Sonicfill RC, introduced with a sonically activated handpiece, reduces its viscosity, allowing for thicker restorations. Although less translucent than conventional BFRCs, depth of polymerization does not depend solely on translucency [9]. One drawback is color change due to intrinsic or extrinsic factors, making shade selection and color stability crucial for long-term restorability [4]. The Ryge or USPHS criteria and their modifications play important roles in evaluating clinical performance and applicability of restorations [10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16]. The success rate of restorations according to these criteria depends on their clinical acceptability. The USPHS and FDI guidelines are the most commonly used criteria for evaluating RC restorations [10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19]. Criteria such as color matching, marginal discoloration, surface structure, retention, marginal integrity, anatomic form, secondary caries, and postoperative sensitivity are clinically significant for dental restorations. The defined properties according to modified USPHS criteria are evaluated with Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, and Delta scores, where Alpha indicates the best score and Delta the worst [12].

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Eastern Caribbean countries strengthen critical care preparedness for future respiratory pandemics

Friday, July 25, 2025

Bridgetown, Barbados, July 25, 2025 (PAHO) – A two-day technical workshop in Barbados was held to enhance the preparedness of the health sector in the Eastern Caribbean for respiratory pandemics, led by experts from the Clinical Management Group of SARInet Plus, alongside national counterparts. The event, technically led by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) ECC, IHM, and IHR, focused on strengthening lifesaving care during health emergencies while ensuring service continuity. Participants from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Grenada, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines shared country experiences, identified key gaps in critical care, and set priorities for training initiatives. Sessions included country briefings on challenges, thematic discussions, and a visit to Ross University to explore simulation facilities. Key areas included strengthening surge planning, improving protocols for severe respiratory infections, and reinforcing infection prevention and control. This workshop supports the Pandemic Fund project "Strengthening Prevention, Preparedness, and Response to Emerging Health Threats in the Eastern Caribbean," a collaboration between PAHO, FAO, and the World Bank. It contributes to building international health regulations and human resources, especially in service delivery and infection control. The initiative fosters interprofessional collaboration and aligns regional priorities to promote resilient, responsive, and integrated health systems across the Eastern Caribbean.

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PAHO and Resolve to Save Lives strengthen partnership to bolster epidemic preparedness across the Americas

Washington, D.C., 25 July 2025 — The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and Resolve to Save Lives have renewed their commitment to enhancing epidemic preparedness and response capacities throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. This strengthened collaboration follows the recent signing of a comprehensive Framework Agreement between the two organizations. The newly established Framework Agreement creates a regional partnership dedicated to implementing and institutionalizing the Early Action Review (EAR) methodology using the globally recognized 7-1-7 target. These metrics are crucial for evaluating the timeliness of outbreak detection and response. “7-1-7” represents the first real-time, end-to-end assessment of a country’s speed in detecting and containing infectious disease threats. It establishes clear objectives: detection within seven days, notification within one day, and response within seven days. The simplicity, focus, and clarity of these metrics have led to their inclusion in the Pandemic Fund’s results framework and their increasing adoption worldwide. In May 2025, PAHO signed an MoU with Resolve to Save Lives and this renewed commitment was recently highlighted during the visit of Ms. Amanda McClelland, Senior Vice President for the Prevent Epidemics program at Resolve to Save Lives, to PAHO Headquarters in Washington, D.C. During her visit, Ms. McClelland met with Dr. Ciro Ugarte, Director of PAHO’s Health Emergencies Department, to strategically plan the implementation of the agreement and explore avenues for deeper collaboration. Through this partnership, PAHO will spearhead the implementation of regional initiatives, offer technical support to countries, and develop training materials on the implementation of the 7-1-7 methodology. The Organization will also promote the integration of detection, notification, and response metrics as key quality performance indicators for national early warning surveillance systems, reporting progress to its Member States through PAHO’s Governing Bodies. Resolve to Save Lives will contribute technical expertise and provide a comprehensive tool kit containing training materials, tools, and guidelines for the adoption of the 7-1-7 methodology. Resolve to Save Lives will additionally participate in regional capacity-building efforts, support data analysis to identify gaps in outbreak response, and engage in advocacy and stakeholder coordination. This partnership reflects a shared vision for a region better equipped to respond to health emergencies, where countries can act quickly, decisively, and collaboratively to save lives. By embedding the 7-1-7 metrics into national systems and fostering a culture of early action, PAHO and Resolve to Save Lives are actively contributing to building a safer, healthier future for all.

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Countries of the Americas move toward a joint approach to manage health workforce migration amid growing shortages in the Americas

Brasília, 25 July 2025 (PAHO) — Representatives from Ministries of Health in the Americas gathered to finalize key elements for a future roadmap aimed at ethical and sustainable management of migration of health professionals. These discussions took place during the International Forum on Human Resources for Health (HRH) in the Americas, organized by Brazil’s Ministry of Health and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The forum, held from 23 to 25 July in Brasília, Brazil, highlighted the severe impact of migration on low- and middle-income countries, particularly in Central America and the Caribbean. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director, noted that the increased migration of health professionals strains existing systems, worsening structural gaps and difficult working conditions. The pandemic exacerbated staffing shortages, especially in rural and underserved areas, with estimates suggesting by 2030, Latin America and the Caribbean will face a shortage of 600,000 to 2 million health professionals. Countries agreed to strengthen human resources and seek joint solutions between countries of origin and destination. The roadmap includes promoting commitments for ethical recruitment and fair treatment, in line with the WHO Global Code of Practice. It also aims to enhance health workforce planning, strengthen health systems through primary health care, and collect data on migration. Brazil’s Minister of Health emphasized the urgency of rethinking labor, education, and health policies as the Forum convenes at a strategic moment. “The shortage and uneven distribution of health professionals remain concrete challenges, and international migration, when managed ethically, can worsen inequalities,” he said. Brazil has sought to address these issues through policies that support and value workers within the Unified Health System. The Forum also included a regional consultation on the third review of the WHO Global Code of Practice on international recruitment. Countries supported recommendations and shared experiences to improve international cooperation.

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Retrospective panoramic radiograph evaluation of acute leukemia patients with fractal analysis.

The aim of this study is to examine changes in the trabecular structure of jaw bones in acute leukemia (AL), which can cause extensive osteopenia using Fractal Analysis (FA). Panoramic images of 45 patients with AL, who had no additional disease affecting the bone, were used as the case group. Control images of 45 patients without bone disease were used for analysis. For each image, 4 regions of interest (ROI) were identified in two anterior and two posterior areas of the mandible. FA was applied to these ROIs, and results were analyzed statistically. The case group showed significantly lower FA values compared to the control group. Gender had no effect on FA values, and there was no correlation between age, blood values, or FA values. The changes in bone structure from AL can be detected with FA, and gender and age had no impact on FA values. There is no correlation between blood values and FA values. AL causes osteopenia, leading to reduced trabecular complexity, as trabecular jawbone has a high bone turnover rate. Diseases affecting internal organs may show signs in dental structures. Dentists may first suspect systemic diseases based on early signs in oral cavity. Oral structures such as teeth, jaws, oral mucosa, and temporomandibular joints can be affected by metabolic, endocrine, or vascular disorders. Leukemia, a significant blood disease, involves malignant anomalies in hematopoiesis. When normal hematopoiesis is disrupted, mutations occur in early precursors, leading to uncontrolled proliferation. These malignant cells spread throughout the body [1, 2]. Although leukemia classification is complex, it is clinically divided into acute and chronic forms. Acute leukemia (AL) is particularly significant as it is the most common malignancy in childhood. The disease progresses rapidly without treatment, often with a poor prognosis. Radiographically, extensive osteopenia of bones can be seen in AL. Jaw involvement is more common in developing teeth and manifests as rarefied osteitis in periapical regions. Radiographic features include poorly defined radiolucent areas and, in some cases, onion-skin-like periosteal new bone formation. Destruction of the cortical border of lamina dura and follicular structures may occur, and erupting teeth may change position [1, 2]. Panoramic imaging (PI) is a two-dimensional diagnostic tool used to evaluate large areas of the jaws. PI is simple, practical, and cost-effective. Beyond assessing dental structures, bone morphology can be analyzed, and various methods are used for analysis. Fractal analysis (FA) is a statistical texture analysis technique based on fractal mathematics, measuring self-similarity and complexity. It measures shapes—curves, points, and surfaces—that cannot be represented by conventional geometry but exhibit fractal features. FA has been used to describe shapes in biological images. It is non-invasive, accessible, and cost-effective. As a result, its use in medicine and dentistry continues to grow. The validity and reliability of FA in dental studies have been reported, especially in evaluating bone structure. Many studies have explored FA's use to detect osteoporotic changes in the jaw bones associated with metabolic diseases. The image of internal alveolar bone resembles a lattice formed by thin spicules, trabeculae, and lamellae. Trabecular bone features a branching structure with fractal characteristics, such as self-similarity and scale invariance. Measuring fractal dimensions using fractal geometry allows information on subtle changes in three-dimensional trabecular bone to be obtained from two-dimensional images using FA values [14]. This enables detection of changes in bone structure from two-dimensional images using fractal parameters. Various pathological conditions may alter anatomical structures, and these changes can be detected with fractal parameters [12, 16]. The aim of our study was to examine changes in the trabecular structure of jaw bones affected by AL using FA.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Timor-Leste certified malaria-free by WHO

Thursday, July 24, 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) has certified Timor-Leste as malaria-free, a significant milestone achieved after prioritizing disease control and a concerted, nation-wide response. This achievement, recognized by the WHO as the third country to be certified, underscores Timor-Leste's success through strong political will, investment, and dedicated health workers, culminating in zero indigenous cases.

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St. Vincent and PAHO Boost HPV Testing to Tackle Cervical Cancer

Wednesday, July 23, 2025

Kingston, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, 16 June 2025 (PAHO) - The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Wellness and the Environment (MOHWE) of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, conducted a weeklong mission to advance the Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative. The mission focused on assessing and supporting the introduction of human papillomavirus (HPV) testing as the primary method for cervical cancer screening. This effort is part of broader regional and global commitments under PAHO’s Plan of Action for Cervical Cancer Prevention and Control 2018-2039, and the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Strategy to Accelerate the Elimination of Cervical Cancer as a Public Health Problem. The PAHO-led delegation was spearheaded by Dr. Mauricio Maza, Regional Advisor for Cancer Prevention and Control, and Dr. Sara Benitez-Majano, PAHO Consultant on Cancer. They were joined by a team of specialists from the University of Miami, a WHO Collaborating Centre for the Elimination of Cervical Cancer, including Dr. Erin Kobetz-Kerman, Dr. Matthew Schlumbrecht, Dr. Antonia Pryor-Leavitt, Dr. Patricia Paule Jeudin, and Ms. Corrine Ferrari. The mission was facilitated by the PAHO/WHO Office for Barbados and the Eastern Caribbean Countries in close partnership with MOHWE, and in consultation with national stakeholders across the health system and wider community. Cervical cancer remains a leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, accounting for approximately 12.7% of all cancers in 2023. Despite the introduction of the HPV vaccine in 2017, uptake remains low, and access to high-performance screening technologies and treatment services is limited. The mission was designed to address these challenges through: The team visited seven healthcare facilities, including the Georgetown Health Centre, Stubbs and Buccament Bay Polyclinics, Levi Latham Hospital, Milton Cato Memorial Hospital, and the Oncology Unit at the Modern Medical Complex. These visits focused on evaluating infrastructure and readiness for HPV screening and treatment and gathering feedback from staff. Technical consultations and stakeholder discussions were held with: A special outreach session was also held in Bequia to extend the dialogue beyond the mainland. The mission marked a significant step forward for St. Vincent and the Grenadines in its cervical cancer elimination journey. The collaboration between PAHO, MOHWE, and the University of Miami sets the stage for improved service delivery and stronger health system responses rooted in equity, evidence, and sustainability.

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Barbados and PAHO Collaborate to Upgrade Digital Health Systems through Stakeholder Dialogue

Bridgetown, Barbados, 23 July 2025 (PAHO) – The Ministry of Health and Wellness, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), hosted a meeting with key stakeholders to present findings from the IS4H assessment. The assessment, conducted in 2022, evaluated Barbados’ current health information systems, focusing on technological infrastructure, data management practices, and information flow. The report highlighted strengths, identified gaps, and outlined opportunities to improve the health information ecosystem. The meeting served as a platform to share findings and collaborate on strategies to transform Barbados’ systems into more robust, responsive, and data-driven environments. Participants engaged in brainstorming, exploring actionable strategies, and emphasized the importance of cross-sector collaboration. Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, Mr. Wayne Marshall, acknowledged PAHO’s technical guidance and stressed collective responsibility, noting that while the Ministry’s role is broad, others must also contribute to the transformation. Dr. Taraleen Malcolm highlighted Barbados’ commitment to digital health as a people-first approach, urging all stakeholders to focus on improving access, quality, and outcomes for all citizens.

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Jamaica Trains Health Workers to Combat Mercury Risks in Skin Products

Kingston, Jamaica, 23 July 2025 (PAHO/WHO) – The Ministry of Health and Wellness (MOHW) in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) has taken a key step in addressing mercury-related health hazards in skin lightening products (SLPs). Two targeted workshops were held in Montego Bay (April 30, 2025) and Kingston (July 9, 2025), training 132 healthcare workers from across Jamaica. The sessions focused on identifying and communicating health risks of mercury exposure, including dangers to pregnant women, children, and unborn babies. Participants received practical education materials to support public health campaigns. The workshops were part of a broader strategy to reduce mercury exposure through daily health practices. The MOHW aims to improve health and wellness, uphold the Minamata Convention, and align with Jamaica’s SDGs. The next phase will expand awareness and enhance product testing, regulation, and knowledge management. Continued intersectoral collaboration and community engagement are key to eliminating SLPs from the market and promoting safer health practices.

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WHO operations compromised following attacks on a building housing staff in Gaza, calling for immediate protection of personnel and facilities

Monday, July 21, 2025

WHO condemns the attacks on a building housing staff in Gaza, calling for immediate protection of personnel and facilities. The destruction of the main warehouse, coupled with ongoing hostilities, severely restricts WHO’s operational capacity, hindering the provision of essential medical supplies and jeopardizing the health of over two million people.

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Senegal joins the growing list of countries that have eliminated trachoma

Tuesday, July 15, 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) has validated Senegal as having eliminated trachoma, marking a significant achievement for the nation and representing a major step forward in global efforts to eliminate this neglected tropical disease. Senegal’s long-term commitment to trachoma control, starting with a national survey in 2000 and expanding to full mapping in 2017 with support from the Global Trachoma Mapping Project and Tropical Data, has resulted in a remarkable reduction in the prevalence of the disease.

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