THE NUMBER ONE HEALTH CARE PROBLEM OF CHILDREN AND ADULTS WITH INTELLECTUAL AND PHYSICAL DISABILITIES IS THE INABILITY TO ACCESS AND RECEIVE COMPETENT ORAL HEALTH CARE.
According to the World Bank, one billion people, or 15% of the world’s population, experience some form of disability, and disability prevalence is higher for developing countries. One-fifth of the estimated global total, or between 110 million and 190 million people, experience significant disabilities.*
Each of these people face unique health-related challenges. One such challenge, which often goes unmet or underserved, is the significant need for quality oral health care, which is deeply connected to overall health.
This is why Project Accessible Oral Health was created. For the first time, a global public-private partnership brings together people with disabilities, the dental and medical communities, policymakers, industry members, educators, caregivers, and other stakeholders in pursuit of improved overall health through greater oral health awareness, education and access to quality oral healthcare for people in the disabilities community.
We hope to inspire an ongoing commitment to fulfill this shared mission and ultimately, make a difference. We encourage you to join the conversation at https://www.facebook.com/ProjectAccessibleOralHealth/.
Thank you for joining us in enhancing the wellness of people with disabilities.
