Annual State Review Meeting of National Oral Health Programme (NOHP) cum Oral Cancer Screening Orientation and Hands-on Training Programme organized by Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation in collaboration with Dental Department, NHAK and Department of Health & Family Welfare, Nagaland supported by TANUH –AI Centre of Excellence, and Dept of Electrical Communication Engineering, Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru, Biocon Foundation and Foundation of Head & Neck Oncology on 10th & 11th September 2026. The inaugural session was held on 10th September 2026 at Auditorium Hall, Naga Hospital Authority Kohima (NHAK).
The programme commenced with an invocation by Addl. Director (Dental), Dr. Reyosalu Lase. Welcome address was delivered by Managing Director, NHAK, Dr. Ruutuou Sorhie. Special remarks were given by Principal Director, Dr. Keveduyi Theyo, Director (Dental), Dr. I. Arenla Walling, & Managing Trustee, Dr. K&T Keditsu Foundation, Dr. Toshevi Keditsu Sema. Special Guest, Commissioner & Secretary, Health & Family Welfare Department, Kevilenuo Angami, in her speech highlighted that Oral health is an integral part of general health; yet, it remains a relatively neglected aspect of the health spectrum in the State. Despite the urgent need for comprehensive strategies for the prevention, control, and management of oral diseases such as dental caries, periodontal diseases, and oral cancer, significant gaps continue to exist in awareness, prevention, early detection, and treatment. She further mentioned the rising incidence of oral cancer is a matter of serious concern. Several risk factors contribute to the development of oral cancer, including tobacco consumption, particularly smokeless tobacco, betel-quid chewing, excessive alcohol consumption, poor oral hygiene, and persistent viral infections, including Human Papillomavirus (HPV). The high prevalence of tobacco use is particularly alarming. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS-2), a substantial proportion of adults use tobacco in one form or another. Equally concerning is the prevalence of tobacco use among young people.
The Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), 2019, reported a high proportion of tobacco use among children in the 13–15-year age group. Coupled with the prevailing burden of head and neck cancers and other malignancies, the State’s healthcare resources could face an increasingly overwhelming cancer burden in the coming 10–15 years unless preventive and promotive measures are undertaken on a war footing. It is therefore imperative that we adopt a comprehensive approach focusing not only on awareness and prevention but also on screening, early detection, accurate diagnosis, timely referral, and appropriate management. She stressed that in order to tackle this serious concern, alongside an extensive awareness campaign, early and accurate diagnosis is an essential component of dental healthcare. All Dental Surgeons posted at various health facilities should therefore have a thorough understanding and adequate knowledge of the different diagnostic and biopsy procedures.
She expressed her deep gratitude to the Dr. K & T Keditsu Foundation, and particularly to Dr. Keduovinuo, and team for their determined efforts and commendable initiative in making this programme a reality. Their commitment in arranging the necessary resources and support to enhance and update the knowledge and skills of Dental Surgeons in performing various biopsy procedures at their respective Health Units is truly praiseworthy. Such initiatives demonstrate the importance of collaboration between the healthcare system and committed partners in strengthening the capacity of our healthcare professionals and ultimately improving patient care.
In conclusion, Kevilenuo Angami urged all Dental Surgeons across the State to sharpen and equip yourselves with the necessary skills and knowledge, particularly in the important area of oral diagnosis and biopsy procedures and also to make the best use of this opportunity, actively participate in the hands-on training, share your experiences, learn from one another, and carry the knowledge and skills acquired here back to respective Health Units. Strengthening our diagnostic capabilities will go a long way in ensuring early detection, timely intervention, appropriate referral, and better patient outcomes. She encouraged everyone to collectively strive to strengthen our dental healthcare services and address this serious concern with greater commitment, professional preparedness, and a renewed sense of responsibility.
The Programme was chaired by Dr. Neingutunuo Angami, Sr. Dental Surgeon NHAK. Vote of thanks was delivered by Dy. Director (Dental) & SNO (NTCP), Dr. I. Simon Sumi.
