Integrating oral health into HIV policies in Africa

An analysis of the current state of public health policies relating to HIV and oral health highlights, at the international level, the choice to adopt an integrated approach as a strategy for the prevention of oral diseases and the promotion of oral health. This strategy sets out a series of steps, challenges and areas for action to be considered by ministries of health and other stakeholders in the health sector, particularly when drawing up or updating national strategic plans to combat HIV/AIDS. To support the development or adaptation of policies and strategies for oral health and to integrate them into national or local health programmes, particular emphasis has been placed on strengthening HIV/AIDS care through professional screening, early diagnosis, and the prevention and treatment of associated oral diseases.