Odonto - Maxillo - Facial Hospital in Vietnam’s southern economic hub of Ho Chi Minh City Aug 29 put into operation a new medical treatment area worth over VND207 billion ($9.95 million) after two-year construction. The treatment area with 11 storeys raises the number of hospital sickbeds to 250 from the previous 60 in a bid to better medical services for local people in 32 southern provinces. The hospital is also seeking the Ministry of Health’s approval to further invest in medical devices to help operate the newly-built work more effectively. In fact, up to 90% of Vietnam’s population suffer from dental and oral diseases, especially those at the age of 35-44 years with 98%, experts said, adding that the common dental and oral diseases include tooth decay, gingivitis and periodontal disease, dental deviations in children. The high rate of tooth decay and periodontal disease in Vietnam is caused by too low fluoride contents in water sources in some areas, as well as lack of dental care. (Tuoi Tre – Youth Aug 30 p4)
