Radiographic evaluation of orodental anomalies in a Thai population: prevalence, supernumerary teeth characteristics, and associations.

Friday, August 8, 2025

Orodental anomalies encompass conditions affecting tooth number, morphology, and eruption patterns, with supernumerary teeth being particularly significant due to their potential to disrupt occlusion, eruption, and alignment. This study aimed to identify and characterize these anomalies in a Thai population using panoramic radiographs. Data analysis revealed 56.0% prevalence of orodental anomalies, with tooth impaction being the most common (37.4%), followed by periapical radiolucency (13.5%) and hypodontia (5.1%). Supernumerary teeth were identified in 1.2% of cases, most commonly as single (76.7%), unerupted (70%), and supplemental-type teeth (76.7%). Significant associations were found with microdontia (p < 0.001) and tooth impaction (p < 0.002), but these associations were not statistically significant when adjusted for gender. The study identified a range of orodental anomalies, highlighting the need for thorough radiographic evaluation in cases presenting with eruption disturbances or tooth size anomalies. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating anomaly screening in routine dental radiography and warrant multicenter investigations for broader generalizability. Orodental anomalies, including supernumerary teeth, are associated with various complications, and their prevalence varies by population and age. The study also focused on characterizing supernumerary teeth, which were significantly associated with other anomalies such as impaction and microdontia in bivariate analysis, though this association was not confirmed by logistic regression. Despite this, the observed co-occurrence highlights the need for comprehensive radiographic assessment in these conditions. The study aimed to investigate orodental anomalies in a Thai population using panoramic radiographs, providing a broader adult dataset and including less commonly analyzed locations. A retrospective observational study identified and characterized supernumerary teeth, including their clinical and radiographic features. The findings emphasize the necessity of thorough radiographic evaluation and suggest the need for further research on these conditions. The study also highlighted the importance of systematic assessment and standardization in dental radiography.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

The effect of polyvinylpyrrolidone sodium hyaluronate gel on palatal wound healing after free gingival graft surgery: a randomized controlled clinical trial.

Thursday, August 7, 2025

This study evaluates the effects of polyvinylpyrrolidone sodium hyaluronate gel (Gelclair®) on palatal wound healing, pain, and bleeding following free gingival graft surgery (FGG). Thirty-two patients underwent FGG and were randomly assigned to two groups: the test group received Gelclair® and chlorhexidine mouthwash, while the control group received only chlorhexidine. Patients were assessed at first, third, seventh, fourteenth, and twenty-eighth postoperative days using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Wound Healing Index (WHI), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) bubbling scores, and bleeding situations. Friedman and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used for repeated measures and between-group comparisons. H₂O₂ test values decreased over time in both groups, with significant differences observed in H₂O₂ test values on days 7, 14, and 28 compared to the control group. WHI values increased similarly, showing significant improvements in both groups. VAS pain, chewing, and burning scores were also significantly lower in the test group on days 1, 3, 7, and 14 compared to the control group. Control groups reported higher bleeding rates on day 1 compared to the test group (p < 0.001). The study suggests that Gelclair® promotes wound healing and reduces discomfort and bleeding in the palatal donor area after FGG. NCT06610331; Retrospectively registered on 23/09/2024. Free gingival grafts (FGGs) are often used in periodontal plastic surgery to address gingival and peri-implant soft tissue defects and restore keratinized gingiva [1]. FGGs are considered the gold standard for treating gingival recession [2], augmenting peri-implant soft tissue, and preserving the alveolar ridge [3, 4]. Due to its anatomical advantages and optimal tissue thickness, the palatal keratinized mucosa is recommended as the ideal donor site for FGG [5]. After FGG surgery, the palatal donor site undergoes secondary wound healing [6]. One of the major postoperative challenges for patients is the morbidity associated with the palatal donor site [7]. Pain is the most common postoperative complication, with some patients recalling this discomfort even a decade after the procedure [8]. Other potential palatal complications include prolonged bleeding, necrosis, infection, and delayed wound healing, often due to injury to the greater palatine artery during surgery [7]. Numerous clinical studies have focused on improving palatal wound healing and reducing patient discomfort [9, 10, 11, 12]. Hyaluronic acid (HA) is a connective tissue component found in the periodontal ligament and gingival tissues, exhibiting bacteriostatic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties [13]. With its remarkable moisturizing, retention, and viscoelastic capacities, HA contributes to essential structural, rheological, physiological, and biological functions. Due to its anti-immunogenic and non-toxic characteristics that support periodontal wound healing, it is widely used in reconstructive periodontal soft tissue surgery [14]. An in vitro study demonstrated that the film form of HA enhances adhesion upon contact with water, facilitating its penetration into tissues and supporting the prolonged functional effect of HA within the tissue [15]. Supporting this finding, an in vivo animal study showed that the HA film structure promoted palatal wound healing both clinically and histologically in experimentally induced palatal wounds in rats [16]. Gelclair® is a film form bioadhesive oral gel commonly used to treat painful oral lesions. This viscous gel contains polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP), sodium hyaluronate, and glycyrrhetinic acid. The chemical structure of PVP allows it to adhere to mucosal surfaces and form a protective film. Sodium hyaluronate which is a type of HA salt; improves tissue lubrication and hydration due to its high water-holding capacity and viscoelastic properties. Glycyrrhetinic acid supports wound healing through its anti-inflammatory effects. Together, these three components in Gelclair® provide hydration and lubrication to damaged tissues in the oral cavity and protect nerve endings from physical stimuli [17].

Labels: BMC Oral Health

Kenya achieves elimination of human African trypanosomiasis or sleeping sickness as a public health problem

The World Health Organization (WHO) has confirmed that Kenya has eliminated human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) or sleeping sickness as a public health problem, making it the tenth country to achieve this milestone. HAT, a second-neglected tropical disease, was already considered eliminated in 2018 with Guinea worm disease, and Kenya is now free of the rhodesiense form of the disease, which is present in eastern and southern Africa. Dr. Aden Duale, Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Health, highlighted this achievement as a significant step toward Africa’s elimination of neglected tropical diseases. The disease, caused by Trypanosoma brucei, is transmitted by tsetse flies and affects rural populations involved in agriculture, fishing, and animal husbandry. Kenya’s efforts, including training health workers and strengthening surveillance in 12 health facilities, have led to the elimination of HAT. The country has also improved monitoring of tsetse flies and trypanosomiasis, supported by the national veterinary health authorities and the Kenya Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis Eradication Council. The WHO continues to support the elimination program and maintain resources for post-validation surveillance.

Labels: WHO

Barbados strengthens its health system with PAHO support to boost production.

Wednesday, August 6, 2025

Washington DC, USA, August 7, 2025 – Barbados is advancing its industrial policy to boost local production of medicines and health technologies by enhancing its national regulatory framework. The country, supported by the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO), is conducting an assisted self-benchmarking exercise using the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Benchmarking Tool (GBT), alongside a clinical trials training webinar. A PAHO Medicines and Health Technologies (IMT) team collaborates with Barbados to align regulatory practices with international standards, including reviewing functions like marketing authorization and pharmacovigilance. The GBT identifies strengths and areas for improvement in regulatory functions, supporting the development of institutional roadmaps for strengthening regulatory systems. During the mission, PAHO works with Barbados’ regulators and stakeholders to address clinical trial oversight, emphasizing the roles of ethics committees. A high-level meeting led by Minister Dr. The Most Honourable Jerome Walcott discussed next steps to implement the national roadmap and expand access to health technologies. Barbados continues to lead in the Caribbean, prioritizing regulatory excellence and equitable health product access. PAHO remains a key partner, providing long-term support to the Government of Barbados in building resilient health systems. This initiative is part of PAHO’s broader effort to strengthen national regulatory systems, supporting public health priorities in the Region of the Americas. Strong regulatory systems ensure product safety, support local production, and enhance preparedness for health emergencies.

Labels: PAHO

Second Community Conversation Hosted as Part of Mental Health Reform in Barbados

Barbados hosted its second hybrid community mental health conversation on 30th July 2025 to update the public on the new Mental Health Act. Approximately 70 in-person attendees and 50 online joined the event, which included a young woman sharing her personal journey through primary school and bullying, highlighting the challenges she faced and the lack of support available. The session emphasized the new Bill's amendments, such as including children, parents, and emergency care. The presentation also highlighted services like mental health services at clinics and school programs. A young person from a psychiatric hospital suggested a mental health identification card to assist former patients, while another raised training needs for first responders. They were informed that doctors can help adjust medications if patients have adverse effects. The session also provided information on the patient's role and support, with the hearing impaired receiving interpreters. This event, part of the Ministry of Health and Wellness, offered a forum for sharing views, concerns, and suggestions.

Labels: PAHO

Second Community Conversation Hosted as Part of Mental Health Reform

Barbados hosted its second hybrid community mental health conversation on 30th July 2025 to familiarize the public with the draft Mental Health Act during the "Mind Yuh Mind" event held at Princess Margaret Secondary School. Approximately 70 in-person attendees and 50 online joined, creating a lively discussion. A young woman shared her personal journey from primary school dealing with learning challenges and bullying, highlighting the emotional toll these experiences had on her mental health and the limited support available. The session set the stage for the Mental Health Commission to outline changes to the Act, including provisions for children's rights, parents' rights, and emergency care. The Commission emphasized the need to include more trained staff, expanded support for non-mental health professionals, and community-based resources. A former patient noted the importance of a mental health identification card for former patients seeking employment, while a first responder's suggestion for training in emergency response was acknowledged. Another participant discussed medication side effects and emphasized the role of healthcare providers in managing these. The session highlighted that the new Bill addresses patient rights and their involvement in care plans, while the Mental Health Tribunal can intervene in abuse cases, and interpreter services for hearing-impaired individuals. This event was part of the Ministry of Health and Wellness' efforts to engage the public in understanding and participating in the mental health reforms.

Labels: PAHO

Guyana’s Fight Against Lymphatic Filariasis: A Story of Hope, Leadership, and Community

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA – 7 AUGUST 2025 - In a brightly lit training room in Georgetown, healthcare workers from Guyana gathered to launch the 2025 Mass Drug Administration (MDA) training, a collaboration between the Ministry of Health and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO). This initiative marks a significant step in Guyana’s journey to eliminate lymphatic filariasis, a disease that has burdened communities for nearly two centuries. The campaign, which aims to eliminate five neglected tropical diseases, emphasizes community involvement and health empowerment. With the IDA drug regimen combining Ivermectin, DiethylCarbamazine (DEC), and Albendazole, eight out of ten regions are free of the disease. Directly Observed Therapy (DOT) ensures medication compliance and trust-building by involving health workers in the process. Health workers are trained not only to administer drugs but also to educate, dispel myths, and lead by example. This approach fosters confidence in the community, ensuring accessibility to treatment. The campaign's success lies in its focus on dignity, opportunity, and social inclusion, empowering individuals to work, care for their families, and participate fully in society.

Labels: PAHO

WHO designates new WHO-Listed Authorities, strengthening access to quality-assured medical products.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized Health Canada, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare/Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (MHLW/PMDA) of Japan, and the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of the United Kingdom as WHO-Listed Authorities (WLAs), a designation granted to national authorities meeting high international regulatory standards for medical products. This expansion of WLA listings to 39 global agencies supports faster access to quality-assured medical products, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The Republic of Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has expanded its listing scope, covering regulatory functions. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted that these authorities' designation reflects their commitment to regulatory excellence, emphasizing their role in promoting trust, transparency, and efficient access to life-saving medical products. Around 70% of countries still face significant challenges due to weak regulatory systems, and the WLA framework promotes regulatory convergence, harmonization, and international collaboration. This collaboration allows WHO Prequalification and regulatory authorities, especially in LMICs, to rely on designated agencies’ decisions. The process involves rigorous evaluations by the TAG-WLA, which ensures transparency and evidence-based pathways. Canada, Japan, and the UK’s authorities were previously SRA authorities and now part of the WLA initiative, which launched in 2022 to replace the SRA model and ensure continuity and stability in global medical product procurement. The initiative builds on WHO’s decades of efforts to enhance global cooperation on medical product regulation, fostering trust, transparency, and efficient access to life-saving products.

Labels: WHO

PAHO Director Commends Guyana’s Health Transformation During Visit

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

GEORGETOWN, GUYANA, 6 August 2025 — During his official visit to Guyana from 21–23 July, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), met with national leaders to reaffirm the organization’s commitment to supporting Guyana’s health agenda. He praised Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, for his leadership in transforming the country’s health infrastructure, emphasizing that Anthony’s efforts to eliminate over 30 diseases, including malaria, TB, HIV, hepatitis B, and cervical cancer, are commendable. Barbosa also highlighted PAHO’s regional collaboration, such as an innovative alliance with the World Bank and the Inter-American Development Bank to strengthen primary health care. He encouraged countries to use their existing loans to renovate facilities, train health workers, and improve connectivity. Mental health and suicide prevention were also highlighted as top priorities, with a focus on early detection and reducing stigma. Dr. Barbosa acknowledged the collaborative work of the PAHO/WHO Guyana CO team, which includes international staff, consultants, and national officers, highlighting the organization's longstanding partnership with Guyana since 1956.

Labels: PAHO

On World Breastfeeding Week, WHO and UNICEF urge governments to invest in breastfeeding support to improve health and development.

Washington, D.C., 6 August 2025 (PAHO/WHO)– As World Breastfeeding Week unfolds under the theme "Prioritize breastfeeding: Create sustainable support systems," the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF call on governments and health systems worldwide to invest in breastfeeding support to improve infant health and development. In the Americas, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) emphasizes regional efforts to boost breastfeeding rates and protect mothers from commercial pressures. In a joint statement issued on 4 August 2025, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell highlight that breastfeeding serves as a baby’s first defense against diseases like diarrhea and pneumonia, acting as their "first vaccine." However, only 48% of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed globally, far from the 60% target set by the World Health Assembly for 2030. The statement points to gaps in health systems as a key barrier, noting that only one in five countries trains doctors and nurses in infant feeding, leaving many mothers without proper guidance after childbirth. Under-resourced and fragmented health systems often fail to provide consistent breastfeeding support, despite its proven benefits: every dollar invested in breastfeeding yields US$35 in economic returns. PAHO reports that in Latin America and the Caribbean, 52% of newborns are breastfed within the first hour of birth, and 43% of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed. However, these rates drop to 37% across the broader Americas region and 27% in North America. Only 19 of the 35 countries and territories in the region have adopted legal measures to partially or fully implement the International Code of Marketing of Breastmilk Substitutes, which protects breastfeeding from commercial influences. To address these challenges, PAHO is supporting countries through initiatives like the Baby-friendly Hospital Initiative, which creates supportive environments for breastfeeding in healthcare facilities. The organization also aids in monitoring compliance with the Code and developing national policies to promote optimal infant feeding, aligning with WHO and UNICEF’s Global Strategy for Infant and Young Child Feeding and PAHO’s efforts to prevent childhood obesity. The WHO and UNICEF statement calls for action to strengthen health systems by strengthening breastfeeding support as both a health and moral economic imperative.

Labels: PAHO

PAHO 2024 Country Reports Highlight Regional Health Progress in the Americas

Washington, D.C., August 6, 2025 (PAHO) – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) released its 2024 country annual reports, highlighting the main results of technical cooperation with governments and strategic partners across the Americas. These reports emphasize concrete outcomes, showcasing inspiring stories from the field and the impact of the Organization's work on each country. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, PAHO Director, stated that the reports demonstrate the Organization's commitment to country-specific, impactful, and transformative technical cooperation aimed at addressing health challenges and strengthening health systems. In 2024, key progress was made in eliminating diseases, accelerating NCD care, improving medical supplies access, promoting digital health transformation, and reducing maternal mortality under the Zero Maternal Deaths initiative. These reports, like PAHO’s 2024 Annual Report Advancing Health for Regional Security, illustrate how regional strategies translate into local results. From surveillance to vaccine production, PAHO supports building equitable and resilient health systems that address population health needs and respond to emergencies. The reports are not only an accountability tool but also a call to action to foster collaboration, mobilize resources, and demonstrate the impact of working with governments, multilateral agencies, and civil society. With 27 country offices, two specialized centers, and presence in 35 Member States and four Associate Members, PAHO, founded in 1902, is the world's oldest international public health agency serving as the WHO Regional Office for the Americas since 1949.

Labels: PAHO

The effects of masseter muscle morphology on occlusion and TMJ in adult skeletal Class II patients: a CBCT study.

This study investigated the correlation between masseter muscle morphology, occlusion, and TMJ characteristics in adult patients with skeletal Class II malocclusion. Eightty-seven participants were evaluated, divided into four groups based on their skeletal Class II profile. CBCT scans were performed before and after orthodontic treatment, allowing for the assessment of masseter morphology, occlusion, and TMJ variables. Significant intergroup differences were observed in masseter morphology indexes (TMM, CSAMM) and occlusion indices (AU6, AL6, TU6, etc.), as well as TMJ variables (AJS, SJS, etc.). The masseter muscle's morphology was found to significantly influence occlusion and TMJ characteristics, affecting occlusal planes, curves, condylar position, and articular fossa morphology. These findings suggest that masseter muscle function plays a critical role in stomatognathic dysfunction and highlight the importance of CBCT-based muscle assessments in orthodontic planning. Skeletal Class II malocclusion, characterized by mandibular retrusion (70% of cases), results from factors like mandibular underdevelopment and functional issues such as steep occlusion planes. Muscle imbalances and posterior-inferior rotation can contribute to the Class II pattern, while the masseter, a primary masticatory muscle, influences occlusion force distribution. The study's findings inform myofunctional therapy in adult orthodontic care, while BTX-A injections show potential improvements in masseter thickness and molar height. The study was approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee, with informed consent provided to participants. All participants were informed of the study's purpose and provided written consent. The sample was divided into four groups based on ANB and MP-SN angles, and CBCT scans were performed on both before and after orthodontic treatment. All data were analyzed using One-Way ANOVA and Pearson correlation. The masseter muscle's thickness and cross-sectional area were measured and analyzed twice, with a one-week interval between measurements. The study highlights the importance of CBCT-based assessments in understanding and improving occlusion and TMJ conditions in Class II patients.

Labels: BMC Oral Health

On World Breastfeeding Week, prioritize breastfeeding: build sustainable support systems.

Sunday, August 3, 2025

Breastfeeding is one of the most effective ways to ensure a baby’s health, development, and survival in the earliest stages of life. It acts as their first vaccine, providing protection against diseases such as diarrhea and pneumonia. However, only 48% of infants under six months are exclusively breastfed, below the World Health Assembly’s target of 60% by 2030. This is due to the challenges faced by new mothers, health workers, and health systems. Millions of mothers lack timely and skilled support when they need it most, with only a fifth of countries including infant and young child feeding training for healthcare providers. This results in many mothers leaving hospitals without guidance on breastfeeding or complementary feeding. In many countries, health systems are under-resourced, fragmented, or poorly equipped to deliver quality, consistent, and evidence-based breastfeeding support. Even with every dollar invested, the economic returns from breastfeeding support are limited. As we mark World Breastfeeding Week, WHO and UNICEF urge governments, health administrators, and partners to invest in high-quality breastfeeding support by strengthening health systems to support breastfeeding, which is not only a health imperative but a moral and economic one.

Labels: WHO

Breastfeeding in Indonesia is rising, but mothers need more support to ensure their infants stay exclusively breastfed

Friday, August 1, 2025

Jakarta, 1 August 2025 – As Indonesia commemorates World Breastfeeding Week 2025, UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO) highlight the importance of strengthening support systems for breastfeeding mothers across the country. The theme, “Prioritize Breastfeeding: Create Sustainable Support Systems,” emphasizes the need for reliable and long-lasting support for mothers, including skilled health workers, workplace policies, and community networks. UNICEF Indonesia Representative Maniza Zaman and WHO Representative Dr. N. Paranietharan commend Indonesia’s progress in exclusive breastfeeding, noting a steady rise from 52% in 2017 to 66.4% in 2024, demonstrating the country’s commitment to promoting breastfeeding. Despite this progress, many infants remain not exclusively breastfed for the full six months, emphasizing the need for supportive systems to ensure mothers have access to resources. UNICEF and WHO recommend that infants receive breastfed within one hour of birth and exclusively breastfed in their first six months, with no other foods or liquids. Breastfeeding is crucial for cognitive development, reducing health risks, and providing lifelong protection. The WHO and UNICEF urge stakeholders to accelerate efforts to support breastfeeding mothers, including workplace and community initiatives, to ensure sustainable and effective support.

Labels: WHO