Over two days, participants analyzed OHO data from Tanzania and considered its implications for the development of the country’s oral health strategy. The TDA team presented on the burden of oral diseases, shared key findings from the OHO data analysis, and compared results with national survey data. An update was also provided on a scientific manuscript currently being developed using the Tanzanian dataset. 

Discussions also examined the broader policy context for oral health in Tanzania, including the results of the country’s fifth National Oral Health Survey (2020), insights from the WHO Global Oral Health Report, and the development of the National Oral Health Strategic Plan for 2026–2031. 

A key objective of the workshop was to explore how OHO data could support evidence-based policy making and strengthen the integration of oral health within national noncommunicable disease (NCD) strategies. Participants also explored how to support progress toward universal health coverage for oral health.

The workshop concluded with a focus on advocacy priorities and next steps for the Tanzanian OHO project, highlighting the important opportunity for national dental associations in leveraging data to inform policy and improve oral health outcomes. 

FDI thanks Haleon for providIng its meeting facilities for the workshop, and are grateful for its support of the Oral Health Observatory project.

The Oral Health Observatory project is supported by Haleon.