Economic sanctions and dental public health in Iran

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Economic sanctions on Iran cause parlous civilian hardship and important economic and social problems. Evidence regarding the impact of economic crisis on dental public health is very rare. This paper reviews the experience of other countries regarding this issue and the plausible solutions. METHODS: In this paper, the outcomes of studies that investigated the impact of economic crisis on different countries of the world were summarized and their experiences in coping with such situations were reviewed. RESULTS: One of the reasons for unfavorable health outcomes among the population is economic recession. Reduced income is associated with less health services utilization and reduced use of preventive care in general. Adoption of high-risk behaviors and increased physical and psychologic stress can be considered as secondary outcomes in such cases. CONCLUSIONS: One of the best ways to deal with oral public health problems at the first months of financial crisis is focusing on the prevention of disease. The health policy makers in Iran should immediately organize the public health system through preventive oral health care.