The Lagos State Government has reiterated its commitment to promoting oral health hygiene among people with disabilities in the state.
The General Manager, Lagos State Office for Disability Affairs (LASODA), Mrs Adenike Oyetunde-Lawal said this on Monday in Alausa.
Oyetunde-Lawal was speaking at an event with the theme: “Oral Health: a key to Cardiovascular Health, Special Focus on the Oral-Systemic Connection: Protecting your Heart through Oral Care.”
The general manager said that the advocacy would address the critical health challenges faced by individuals with disabilities due to inadequate oral hygiene practices.
“The programme is in response to numerous requests for medical and financial assistance from parents, guardians and persons with disabilities, many of which were linked to preventable oral hygiene issues.
“I urge participants to take advantage of the initiative which featured informative sessions, expert talks on hygienic food and resources on simple yet effective oral care practices.
“We also offer free dental care services to help improve the health and well-being of people with disabilities in the state.
“What happens in the mouth is connected to the heart and other body systems. This advocacy is crucial because of those who have weak cognitive development,” she said.
Oyetunde-Lawal said the state government was ready to collaborate with private organisations, such as Smiles Foundation in creating awareness.
She said the partnership would also provide practical solutions for better health care through proper oral care, including free dental care services.
The guest speaker, Dr Funmi Adeniyi, stressed the need to take adequate care by keeping the teeths and gums in good conditions.
“It is important to visit a dentist at least twice a year for scaling and polishing. It is also very important to take enough fruits and vegetables, because the mouth is the mirror of human outlook.
NAN
