Essential role of community health workers in promoting oral health in Africa

Abstract

Oral health remains a critical yet often overlooked aspect of overall health in Africa, where a significant burden of oral diseases is evident. The integration of community health workers (CHWs) into oral health promotion strategies presents a unique opportunity to address both human resource and educational challenges, particularly in underserved communities. This study explores the pivotal role CHWs can play in enhancing oral health outcomes across various African contexts. By providing basic dental care, education and facilitating access to professional services, CHWs contribute to the prevention and early detection of oral diseases. The research draws on case studies, programme evaluations and field reports to highlight the effectiveness of CHW-led initiatives. The findings underscored the need for increased investment in CHW training and support as a sustainable approach to improving oral health in Africa. It highlights the role of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention in promoting oral health in the mandate of CHWs, identifies the challenges it may face in playing this role and proffers solutions including promoting the development of oral health policies and plans by the Africa Union Member States as a critical first and feasible step. The study concludes by identifying the need for a comprehensive assessment of the status of integration of oral health into CHW programmes in Africa to help the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention identify gaps for strategic actions. This article offers the first comprehensive exploration of the potential for formally integrating CHWs into oral health promotion strategies across Africa. By mapping existing interventions, evaluating their effectiveness, and identifying policy and structural challenges, the study provides critical insights into how CHWs can bridge gaps in access to oral healthcare, particularly in underserved populations. It highlights the strategic role of the Africa CDC in advancing oral health through CHW-led initiatives and calls for standardised training, policy support, and system integration. The article aligns with the Journal of Public Health in Africa’s scope by addressing health systems strengthening and universal health coverage in the African context through an underutilised yet scalable workforce.