Perio federation welcomes WHO declaration
For the first time, oral health is embedded within a global political declaration on NCDs and mental health.
The European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) has welcomed the adoption of the World Health Organization (WHO) declaration on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health.
For the first time, oral health is explicitly embedded within a global political declaration on NCDs and mental health. The declaration reinforces the urgent need to move beyond siloed approaches to health care.
It reflects growing recognition that oral diseases affect billions of people worldwide, remain largely preventable, and are closely linked to other chronic conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and mental health disorders, through shared risk factors and social determinants.
Periodontal diseases, tooth loss and untreated oral infections continue to place a substantial burden on individuals, health systems and economies across Europe, particularly among older adults and socially disadvantaged populations.
The federation said that integrating oral health into primary health care, prevention strategies and universal health coverage is essential to achieving healthier ageing, reducing inequalities and improving quality of life.
“The WHO declaration sends a powerful political signal that oral health can no longer be treated as an afterthought,” said Spyros Vassilopoulos, the EFP’s President.
“By placing oral health firmly within the global NCD and mental health agenda, governments acknowledge that healthy mouths are fundamental to healthy lives, healthy ageing and social inclusion. For Europe, this is an opportunity to accelerate integrated, prevention-oriented care that truly puts people at the centre.”
The EFP particularly welcomed the declaration’s strong emphasis on equity, prevention and integration across the life course. It said that aligning oral health with policies on tobacco control, healthy diets, alcohol reduction and access to essential services creates opportunities for more effective, cost-efficient and sustainable health systems, while also supporting mental well-being and resilience.
“The challenge now is implementation,” said Anton Sculean, the EFP’s Secretary General. “European health systems must ensure that oral health is meaningfully integrated into primary care, NCD pathways and universal health coverage, supported by prevention, early detection and equitable access to care.
“The EFP stands ready to facilitate dialogue, share best practices and support stakeholders in turning these commitments into measurable improvements for patients.”