Global Oral Health Leaders Gather at NDCS’ conference to Spotlight Prevention and Call for Action on Sugar Consumption

• The International pre-launch of landmark Lancet Commission report highlights urgent need to shift from treatment to prevention
• Study on sugar consumption co-authored by NDCS’s researchers is the first study to quantify the avoidable burden of periodontitis and edentulism in addition to dental caries

Singapore, 26 October 2026 –The Singapore Population Oral Health Symposium organised by the National Dental Centre Singapore saw a gathering of thought leaders, healthcare professionals, researchers, and policymakers. The symposium marked the pre-launch of a landmark report from the Lancet Commission on Oral Health, highlighting the importance of placing prevention at the heart of oral healthcare planning and delivery. The symposium was opened by Guest-of-Honour, Professor Kenneth Mak, Director-General of Health, Ministry of Health, Singapore.

Developed over five years by 27 international commissioners, the Lancet report emphasises that tackling the global burden of oral diseases requires both upstream action on their underlying determinants, including healthier food environments and sugar reduction policies, and equitable access to appropriate, high-quality oral health care.

Excessive sugar consumption is a well-established risk factor for dental caries and periodontal disease, both of which contribute to avoidable healthcare costs and reduced quality of life. A recent Australian study1 (co-authored by Prof Marco Peres) underscores the importance of upstream preventive measures that encourage healthier beverage choices and reduce exposure to added sugars. The study found that implementing a 20% tax on sugar-sweetened beverages could substantially reduce rates of tooth decay, gum disease and tooth loss, while generating meaningful improvements in population health over time.

As the only representative Commissioner from Singapore on the Commission, Professor Marco Peres, NDCS’ Deputy CEO (Research, Innovation and Education) highlighted excessive sugar consumption as one of the most important issues facing public health today: "Sugar is a major risk factor not only for tooth decay but also for obesity, diabetes and other non-communicable diseases. Policies that help people reduce their sugar intake can deliver significant benefits across multiple health outcomes."

For Singapore's ageing population, maintaining good oral health is increasingly important. Poor oral health can negatively affect nutrition, social participation and overall wellbeing, while tooth loss and gum disease are associated with broader health concerns. Preventing oral diseases through sugar reduction strategies can therefore support healthy ageing and help lessen the long-term burden on healthcare services.

Singapore's longstanding commitment to prevention reflects many of the approaches advocated by the Commission. As the first country in Asia to introduce water fluoridation in 1950s2, Singapore has demonstrated how public health policies can contribute to improved oral health outcomes across generations.

Other recommendations by the Commission include strengthening preventive oral healthcare, tackling health inequalities, supporting healthier food policies and integrating oral health into universal health coverage frameworks. These interventions complement Singapore's ongoing efforts to build a healthier nation and empower individuals to make informed dietary choices.

The symposium brings together more than 160 delegates and leading experts from across Asia and beyond, including representatives from China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and other countries. The event marks the first international platform in Asia to showcase the Commission's findings ahead of a series of engagements planned in other regions including Europe, America and Africa.

On the same day prior to the conference, NDCS and The University of Hong Kong (HKU) will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a strategic partnership to advance collaboration in oral health research, education and innovation. With both Asian cities facing similar healthcare challenges, including rapidly ageing populations, the partnership will create new opportunities and strengthen oral health capabilities for both institutions.

For more information about the speakers at the Singapore Population Oral Health Symposium, please visit Singapore Population Oral Health Symposium 2026 | National Dental Centre Singapore.