New data from a recent Royal College of Physicians (RCP) member snapshot survey underscores the concerning impact of health inequalities. Dr. Nigel Carter OBE, CEO of the Oral Health Foundation, highlights the deepening dental crisis affecting society's most vulnerable populations.
Dr. Carter states that health inequalities are contributing to preventable oral health issues like tooth decay and tooth loss, particularly among individuals in poverty, those subject to poor housing, and those with limited access to dental care. "Health inequalities are fuelling a dental crisis that disproportionately affects the most vulnerable in society. The stark reality is that preventable oral health problems, such as tooth decay and tooth loss, are more common among those living in poverty, with poor housing, and limited access to dental care."
The implications of these inequalities range across all life stages, affecting children with higher rates of tooth decay and impacting their education, while adults face obstacles in accessing essential care, leading to time off work and decreased productivity. Dr. Carter emphasizes the need for timely government action: "Government must take immediate action to address the root causes - poverty, housing, and inadequate healthcare services."
A failure to address these systemic issues could mean heightened pressure on the NHS, negative economic impacts, and continued suffering for many individuals enduring avoidable pain. Dr. Carter advocates for a coordinated government approach, saying, "If we don't tackle these systemic issues, the burden on the NHS will continue to rise, the economy will suffer, and more people will endure unnecessary pain. It's time for a comprehensive, cross-government strategy to reduce health inequalities and ensure everyone has access to the care they need."
The Guardian recently published an article calling on the government to utilize its health mission delivery board to implement a strategy that tackles health inequalities and the social determinants of health.
The Royal College of Physicians has made the original press release available on its website.
