Medical experts warn of oral disease risk to children

DAR ES SALAAM: MEDICAL experts have warned of oral diseases in children that  includes tooth decay and tonsillitis saying it can lead to heart valve diseases if not treated on time.

The statement was made today by oral and dental doctor from the Jakaya Kikwete Heart Institute (JKCI) and Dar Group Hospital, Aitham Mohamed, during a special two-day Pocket Medicine camp by Dr Samia Suluhu Hassan Outreach Services at the Mbagala Zakhem Fields in Dar es Salaam.

Dr Aitham said there is a strong connection between dental, oral and heart problems, as tooth decay causes the presence of bacteria that can spread to attack heart valves and thus cause heart disease.

“We have been advising the community to protect oral health by brushing their teeth at least twice a day. This step helps prevent tooth decay and oral diseases that can endanger heart health”, said Dr Aitham.

He added that patients undergoing open-heart surgery have their oral health checked before surgery, to avoid possible bacterial infections after surgery.

For his part, JKCI Surgeon – Dar Group Hospital, Joyce Mkodo said that in the camp, surgical specialists have participated in providing services to people with chronic wound challenges.

“We are holding this camp as part of celebrating JKCI’s achievements in the past 10 years since it began providing specialist heart treatment services. When citizens get an opportunity like this, they should come forward in large numbers, as many do not check their health until they experience problems”, said Dr Joyce.

Dr Joyce added that patients who are found to have health problems will be referred to JKCI Dar Group Hospital located in TAZARA for further examination and treatment.

Ibrahim Ndube, a resident of Mbagala, said he enjoyed the services, noting that it is a great comfort to see a large institution like JKCI reaching out to low-income citizens.

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“The services I received here are very good. I have seen oral, back and heart doctors. I congratulate you for the excellent services and good education about health. The capital of life is health, so my fellow young people, do not hesitate to get your health checked”, he said.