Dr. Oum-Kalsoum Zaharia Adam, an Oral and Maxillofacial surgery resident and Public Health Practitioner at the Korlebu Teaching Hospital, has sounded an alarm on the escalating rate of oral infections in Ghana, attributing much of the problem to dietary habits.
In an interview on the Happy Morning Show with Sefah Danquah, Dr. Adam expressed concern over the growing prevalence of tooth decay, particularly on the African continent and within Ghana.
She emphasized that one of the contributing factors to this alarming trend is the shift towards the consumption of more refined foods rather than fresh fruits and vegetables.
“Oral infection on the continent and in Ghana has been on the rise, particularly because of the fact that there are high numbers when it comes to caries,” Dr. Adam explained.
She highlighted the detrimental effects of refined foods on dental health, noting that they pose a significantly higher risk of causing dental caries compared to fresh foods.
This shift in dietary habits, characterized by an increasing reliance on processed and refined foods, has raised concerns among healthcare professionals regarding its impact on oral health.
Dr. Adam stressed the importance of promoting a balanced diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables as a crucial measure for preventing oral infections and maintaining good dental hygiene.
She urged individuals to be mindful of their dietary choices and to prioritize foods that support oral health.
People can protect their dental health and general well-being by adopting proactive measures such as prioritising oral hygiene routines and making informed dietary decisions.