What needs are unmet?
Strategic Issue 1
Despite several commissioned services there has been a recent risk in dental decay among 5-year-olds and the rate of hospital admissions for dental caries in 0–5-year-olds remains unchanged. Residents have expressed difficulties in accessing GPs and NHS services which may explain the rise in incidence.
Strategic Issue 2
There has been increases in oral cancer registration and mortality rates, which suggests a need for targeted cancer prevention and early detection.
Strategic Issue 3
There are high rates of smoking and obesity in comparison to the region, this suggests a need for improved health literacy in relation to lifestyle risk factors of oral health.