July 2021 - Virginia Health Catalyst

Making the case for interprofessional education and practice collaboration to address rising rates of HPV-associated oropharyngeal cancers

By Anderson Hayes | July 22, 2021

Cancers caused by the humanpapilloma virus (HPV) on the tongue, tonsils, mouth, and throat are rising in the US, particularly among males. The HPV vaccine, usually given to adolescents, is effective at preventing oral cancers caused by HPV. Dental professionals have an opportunity to educate patients and encourage the HPV vaccine to prevent these cancers.…

Oral Health Care and Your Family

By Ericca Facetti | July 22, 2021

When you think of your child’s overall health, does their mouth come to mind? Oral health plays a critical role in the overall health of kids and adults, you can’t be truly healthy without a healthy mouth! At Virginia Health Catalyst we connect with parents, educators, and dental providers to empower families across the commonwealth…

Improving Oral Health in Virginia’s Schools

By Anderson Hayes | July 21, 2021

Schools aren’t just a place for children to learn, they are a place that can address the health needs of Virginia students. In particular, school-based oral health programs can address the dental care gap many students face. What are school-based oral health programs? School-based oral health programs address multiple barriers to health care access and…