FDI World Dental Federation

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Meeting: 

77th WHA Individual Statements

Agenda Item: 
- Group 3.1. Items 15.1, 15.2, 15.3 and 15.5
Statement: 

FDI and IADR welcome the biennial report on nutrition. We express concern that five of the six 2025 targets may not be met, and cases of childhood overweight are increasing in some Regions. Childhood obesity increases the risk of poor oral health, and other NCDs later in life.

Therefore, we urge governments to tax sugar-sweetened beverages and other unhealthy foods and beverages, implement front-of-package nutrition labelling and regulate the marketing of unhealthy foods, especially to young people.

We congratulate governments on the likelihood of surpassing the exclusive breastfeeding target. Breastfeeding lowers the risk of early childhood caries and other NCDs. We urge governments to leverage the guidance on measures to restrict digital marketing of breast-milk substitutes.

We also welcome the emphasis placed on Universal Health Coverage and Primary Health Care for enhancing well-being. Oral health is a key indicator of overall health and well-being. We urge governments to prioritize oral health by implementing the Global Oral Health Action Plan.