Earlier this year, the Indian Dental Association (IDA) and FDI held joint workshops to improve oral health in the country by tackling the sugar and tobacco epidemics. The outcome of these capacity building workshops was the development of the Mumbai Declaration on Sugary Drinks and Healthy Food, which was supported by several signatories including the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India (MoHFW), and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). By signing the declaration, organizations committed to several key areas of action. One such area is the observation of a national “No Sugar Day”, which was held for the very first time this year on 1 November.

The Mumbai Declaration leads to concrete actions in improving oral health nationally

For the first time ever, IDA with the MoHFW and FSSAI observed a National No Sugar Day to raise awareness of the health risks caused by sugar consumption. Their efforts do not stop here as IDA, FSSAI along with multiple other organizations will continue their efforts throughout the month of November for a sugarless month in India with a focus on reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases in India. Their promotion plans include an extensive social media Less Sugar Advocacy campaign for the public and professionals; a school oral health programme promoting better nutrition and awareness on free sugars; and a quiz and challenges for dental students in dental institutes.

FDI commends the efforts of its member IDA, the government of India and the FSSAI and encourages members all around the world to take inspiration from this initiative to reduce the burden of oral diseases globally and improve oral health for all.