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On World Oral Health Day, VDH wants to remind everyone that good oral health is more than having a bright smile. 

About Oral Health 

Oral health refers to health of the teeth, gums, and related structures. Having good oral health can affect our ability to eat, speak, smile, and connect with others. 

Oral health is vital to the management and prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease and respiratory illness as well as overall wellness. 

You aren’t really healthy without good oral health! 

 Some of the most common diseases and conditions that impact our oral health include: 

• Cavities (tooth decay) 

• Periodontal (gum) diseases 

• Oral cancers 

• Tooth loss 

Steps for Good Oral Health 

The good news is that most oral diseases and conditions are preventable.  

Simple daily habits can make a big difference:  

• Brush teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste.  

• Floss daily.  

• Get a dental check-up and professional cleanings at least once a year.   

• Eat a healthy diet, limiting sugary drinks and foods. 

• Avoid tobacco products. 

Oral Health and Chronic Conditions 

Oral health is a key part of our overall health and well-being as it’s linked to a variety of chronic conditions: 

• Diabetes: Gum disease can make it harder to control blood sugars. Diabetics are three times more likely to have gum disease than non-diabetics.  

• Heart Disease: Periodontal patients are 1-2 times more likely to have a heart attack. Bleeding with brushing is not normal and is often the first warning sign of a serious problem.  

• Lung Disease/Breathing Problems: Bacteria in the mouth can be inhaled into the lungs, making lung disease worse and increasing the risk of pneumonia.  

• Stroke: The fatty blockages in the arteries of stroke victims contain the same bacteria that is found in the mouth.  

• Pregnancy: Pregnant people who have gum disease are seven times more likely to have premature or low birthweight babies.  

• Oral Cancer: Many cancers and viruses can be detected early by signs and symptoms in the mouth. 

Oral Health for Everyone 

Unfortunately, many Virginians face barriers accessing oral health care. Some people face barriers like high costs, lack of insurance, transportation, or too few providers in their community.   

In Virginia: 

• 31% of adults do not have dental coverage. 

• Only 27% of practicing dentists treat Virginians enrolled in Medicaid or Family Access to Medical Insurance Security, and public insurance programs for people who have low incomes or disabilities.  

• 13 Virginia localities have fewer than one full-time dentist 

• This includes eight localities with no full-time dentist 

Programs like VDH’s Dental Health Program can help by providing dental screenings, treatments, and education to those facing barriers to care.  

When everyone has access to quality oral healthcare, we can all smile bigger.  

Learn More 

Learn more about oral health at www.vdh.virginia.gov/oral-health/. 

 

 

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is more than just a bump on the head. It’s an injury that affects how the brain works and can lead to short- or long-term health problems. 

TBIs may be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a penetrating injury to the head (such as from a gunshot). 

Some injuries are mild, like a concussion. Others are moderate or severe injuries that may require hospitalization, rehabilitation, and ongoing support. 

Common causes of TBIs include: 

• Firearms 

• Falls 

• Motor vehicle accidents 

• Being hit (sports injuries, assaults) 

Falls are especially important to highlight because they account for a large share of TBI-related hospitalizations. 

Traumatic Brain Injuries in Virginia 

In 2024, Virginia had almost 6,000 hospitalizations for TBI.  

 Older adults are more likely to be hospitalized and die from a TBI compared with other age groups. TBIs may also be missed or misdiagnosed in older adults because symptoms can overlap with other conditions that are more common with aging, including dementia. If an older adult falls—especially if they hit their head or are taking blood thinners—getting checked by a healthcare provider is a smart and often time-sensitive step. 

Concussion 

A concussion is a mild type of TBI that changes the way the brain normally works.  

A concussion is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. It can also be caused by a blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth.  

It’s important to know that a concussion can occur without a loss of consciousness. 

Some symptoms may appear right away, while others may not appear for hours or days after the injury. Symptoms generally improve over time. Most people with a concussion feel better within a couple of weeks. 

Common concussion symptoms can include: 

• Headache 

• Balance problems or dizziness   

• Nausea/Vomiting (especially early on) 

• Sensitivity to light or noise   

• Blurred vision or double vision   

• Feeling “dazed”, sluggish, foggy or groggy   

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering   

• Sleep changes (sleeping more/less, trouble falling asleep)   

• Mood changes (feeling irritable, sad, nervous or more emotional 

• Trouble thinking or concentrating 

• Will not stop crying and are inconsolable (children only) 

• Will not nurse or eat (children only) 

With proper care, most people can return to work, school, and other activities within a few days or weeks, but some people will have symptoms for months or longer. Follow-uping up with a healthcare provider is critical if symptoms linger. 

When to seek emergency care (Danger Signs) 

Call 911 or go to the emergency department right away if someone has a bump/blow/jolt to the head and then develops danger signs such as:  

• A headache that gets worse and does not go away 

• Repeated vomiting 

• Weakness, numbness, decreased coordination, seizures/convulsions 

• Slurred speech or unusual behavior (confusion, agitation, inability to recognize people/places) 

• One pupil larger than the other 

• Increasing drowsiness, inability to wake up, or loss of consciousness 

Small Actions Can Make a Big Difference 

 Everyday steps can help reduce the risk of brain injury: 

In vehicles 

• Wear a seat belt every trip and use the correct car seat/booster for children 

In sports and recreation 

• Wear a properly fitted helmet for biking and sports where helmets are recommended. 

• Follow safety rules and learn the signs and symptoms of concussion.  

Preventing falls—especially for older adults 

• Make the home safer (remove tripping hazards, add handrails/grab bars, improve lighting). 

• Stay physically active to maintain strength and balance. 

• Review medications with a provider (some can increase fall risk). 

• Keep vision prescriptions up to date. 

Learn More 

• VDH Traumatic Brain Injury site  

• Virginia Injury Violence Data 

• CDC Traumatic Brain Injury and Concussion site  

• CDC Heads Up to Brain Injury Awareness page  

• Brain Injury Association of America’s About Brain Injury page 

World HPV Awareness Day is a day to talk about the human papillomavirus (HPV).  It’s a time to clear up myths and remind people that many HPV-related cancers are preventable.  With the tools we have, preventing HPV-related cancer is possible, with awareness as the first step. 

About HPV 

HPV is spread through close and intimate skin-to-skin contact.  Roughly 85% of people will get an HPV infection in their lifetime. 

Most people who have HPV have no symptoms and are unaware they have it.  This is because HPV infections often clear up on their own. 

HPV and Cancer 

However, some HPV types can cause cancer. There are more than 200 types of HPV, with about 12 types being linked to cancer.  Each year in the United States, an estimated 36,500 men and women are diagnosed with a cancer caused by an HPV infection.  

Protection Against HPV 

The good news is that we have safe and effective tools to help prevent cancer caused by HPV.  

HPV Vaccine 

One of the best cancer prevention tools we have is the HPV vaccine. HPV vaccination could prevent more than 90% of HPV-related cancers from ever developing.   

The HPV vaccine works best when given well before exposure to the virus. 

• The HPV vaccine is recommended for routine vaccination at age 11 to 12 years of age. Vaccination can also start as early as 9 years of age.  

• The HPV vaccine produces the strongest immune response in preteens. 

• In Virginia, 3 out of 4 thirteen-year-olds are vaccinated with at least one dose of HPV. 

• People aged 26 years and younger who are not fully vaccinated are recommended to get the vaccine.   

• Some adults age 27 and older may choose to get vaccinated, in consultation with a healthcare provider.   

• The HPV vaccine is available for free through the Virginia Vaccines for Children (VVFC) program for eligible children ages 9-18 years old. 

Screening for HPV  

• Screening for HPV is another safe and effective tool for preventing HPV related cancer however it is not available for all cancers caused by HPV.  

• Women should start getting screened for cervical cancer at age 21. Screening can include HPV and/or Pap tests.   

• A healthcare provider can help determine which screening test is best and how often a woman should get screened.   

• Eligible women can get free screenings through the Every Woman’s Life Program. 

Research is still being done on HPV tests for other parts of the body. People with concerns about other HPV-related cancers should talk with a healthcare provider.  

Other Prevention Steps   

• Practice Safer Sex 

• • Limiting the number of sex partners and avoiding sexual activity with people who have had many other sex partners can help lower your risk of exposure to HPV.  

• • Use a barrier method (condom or dental dam) during sex. This can reduce (but not eliminate) the chance of HPV spreading.   

• If you smoke, stop or cut back if you can. Smoking exposure significantly increases cervical cancer risk.   

More Information  

• HPV – American Cancer Society 

• VDH HPV Vaccine Webpage 

• Every Woman’s Life Program   

What Is Colorectal Cancer? 

Colorectal cancer starts in the colon or rectum. These two parts of the large intestine helps your body digest food and remove waste.  

Most colorectal cancers begin as small growths called polyps (small tissue). Polyps can slowly turn into cancer over many years if not found and removed. 

Rising Rates in Younger Adults 

Colorectal cancer is most common in older adults. In Virginia, it’s the fourth most common diagnosed cancer.  

However, rates are increasing in younger adults too. Rates of colorectal cancer in adults under 50 have been rising over the past 20 years. Studies show incidence rates increasing by around 2 to 3 percent per year in younger adults.  

Don’t Ignore the Signs and Symptoms 

In early stages, colorectal cancer often doesn’t have any symptoms. But as it grows, symptoms may include: 

• A change in bowel habits that last more than a few days. This can include diarrhea, constipation, or narrowing of the stool (poop). 

• Rectal bleeding with bright red blood. 

• Blood in the stool that might make the stool look dark brown or black. 

• Cramping or abdominal (belly) pain. 

• Weakness and fatigue. 

• Unintended weight loss. 

• A feeling that you need to have a bowel movement that’s not relieved by having one. 

Reduce Your Risk with Healthy Habits 

There is no way to completely prevent cancer, but you can help reduce your risk by: 

• Staying active and maintaining a healthy weight 

• Eating a healthy diet that is high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains 

• Limiting the amount of red and processed meats you eat 

• Not smoking and limiting alcohol 

Catch It Early with Screening 

Screening tests can detect cancer early and often finds polyps before they turn into cancer.  Treatment works best when cancer is detected early. 

People at average risk should begin screening at age 45.  People with symptoms or who have a family history should talk to a healthcare provider about getting screened earlier. 

There are multiple screening options, the two most common include: 

• Stool tests you do at home every 1-3 years  

• Colonoscopy in a medical setting every 10 years 

Colorectal cancer can be serious, but paying attention to symptoms and getting screened can save lives.   

Learn More 

• Colorectal Cancer –  American Cancer Society 

• Colorectal Cancer – CDC 

• Cancer Action Coalition of Virginia 

February is Children’s Dental Health Month. The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) wants to remind families and communities about the importance of teaching young children good dental habits. Healthy teeth help children eat, speak, learn, and feel confident. 

Tooth decay, also known as cavities, is most the common chronic disease of childhood in the United States. Luckily, it’s one of the easiest conditions to prevent.  

Healthy Habits = Healthy Smiles 

Parents, guardians, and caregivers can assist children develop healthy habits by: 

• Brushing their teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. 

• Helping your child brush their teeth until they have good brushing skills using a pea-sized amount of toothpaste.  

• Asking your child’s dentist to apply dental sealants when appropriate. Applying dental sealants to the back teeth prevents 80% of cavities.  

• Drinking fluoridated tap water when possible. 

Heathy Smiles for Everyone 

Communities also play an important role in increasing access to dental care. Some families face barriers like high costs, lack of insurance, transportation, or too few dentists in their community. Programs, like VDH’s Dental Health Program, can help by providing dental screenings, sealants, and community-based education to those facing barriers to care.  

Children’s Dental Health Month is a reminder that dental health matters for every child. By starting good dental habits early, we can make sure every child has a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.  

Learn More 

Learn more about oral health for children at www.vdh.virginia.gov/oral-health/