A recent conference highlighted systemic issues in oral health treatment for cancer patients in Lithuania, where many do not receive adequate dental care.
On February 23, 2026, representatives from the National Cancer Center, the Lithuanian Dental Chamber, and the Association for Assistance to Cancer Patients spoke at a press conference in the Lithuanian Parliament, addressing critical shortcomings in dental care for cancer patients. They reported alarming statistics from a POLA survey indicating that 8 out of 10 oncology patients assess their oral health as poor, with over half lacking necessary dental assistance, while 77% noted that their oral condition wasn't systematically monitored during treatment.
The issues raised during the conference emphasize the systemic neglect of oral health within oncology care in Lithuania. According to Neringa ΔiakienΔ, the director of POLA, the challenges faced are not merely about aesthetics or comfort, but fundamentally affect the health and recovery of patients. Painful oral conditions can severely limit a patient's ability to eat, leading to weakness and further complications, illustrating the urgent need for integrated care that includes dental monitoring and treatment.
The discussion underscored the importance of integrating oral health into the oncology patient care pathway. Stakeholders called for a greater emphasis on educational initiatives for both patients and medical professionals to ensure that oral health is a priority throughout cancer treatment, thus enhancing the overall health outcomes for patients battling cancer.
