On World Oral Health Day 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has revealed that South-East Asia bears the highest global burden of oral diseases and mouth cancer. The region accounts for approximately 900 million cases of oral diseases, making it the most affected among the six WHO regions.
Oral cancer is the leading cancer among males in South-East Asia, representing 11.2% of all cases. The high prevalence is attributed to the widespread consumption of smokeless tobacco and areca nut, both proven carcinogens. A recent analysis indicates that one in two cases of oral cancer in the region could be prevented by eliminating these substances.
WHO Regional Director Saima Wazed emphasized the detrimental impact of oral diseases on physical, emotional, and social well-being. She called for accelerated action to achieve universal health coverage for oral health by 2030 and announced the formulation of a regional roadmap to address the burden of oral cancer.
The WHO’s findings underscore the urgent need for primary prevention, public awareness, and improved access to oral healthcare in South-East Asia. Stay tuned for more updates on global health initiatives and their impact.
