On Tuesday, 15 October 2024, the Master’s Program in Dental Science (S2 IKG) at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FKG UGM), hosted a guest lecture themed “Oral Health Policy in Japan”. Delivered by Dr. Sachiko Takehara, DDS, Ph.D., from Niigata University, the lecture explored Japan's oral health policies, including the universal health insurance system that covers dental care.
One of the highlights of Japan’s oral health initiatives is the 8020 Campaign, which aims to ensure that 80% of the population aged 80 retains at least 20 of their natural teeth. The lecture was conducted in a hybrid format and attended by lecturers and all students of the S2 IKG program.
Dr. Takehara emphasized the importance of international collaboration in improving oral health. “Oral health is an integral part of overall health and quality of life. The 8020 Campaign in Japan exemplifies our efforts to enhance the oral health of our population. We believe that with the right policies and strong collaboration, we can achieve better oral health for everyone,” she stated.
The lecture aimed to provide an in-depth understanding of Japan's oral health policies and identify best practices that could be adapted by other countries. Additionally, it fostered discussions among oral health professionals to develop strategies for improving global public health.
Japan’s oral health policies, which include school-based prevention and promotion programs, support SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being and SDG 4: Quality Education. Furthermore, the collaboration and knowledge-sharing with other nations align with SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals.
Authors: Juni Handajani, Pram
