PDA Karachi, SSGC launch joint dental awareness initiative

KARACHI: To promote oral hygiene and combat rising oral health issues linked to gutka, betel nut, mawa, and tobacco, the Pakistan Dental Association (PDA) Karachi has partnered with Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) for a dedicated 'Public Dental Awareness Program'.

The initiative was finalized during a meeting held at the SSGC Head Office in Karachi, where a PDA Karachi delegation, led by Prof. Dr. Aqeel Shaikh, met with SSGC's Chief Medical Officer Dr. Zahid Ali Faheem and team. Dr. Feroz Jahangir, General Secretary, Dr. Wasif Iqbal, Joint Secretary, and Dr. Ahmed Bari, Finance Secretary were also part of the PDA Karachi delegation. This marks a strong commitment by both organizations to drive community health under the banner of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

A step toward preventive oral healthcare

With oral cancer and dental complications on the rise due to widespread tobacco and betel nut consumption, this initiative will focus on:

• Raising awareness about oral hygiene
• Educating employees on the dangers of harmful oral habits
• Encouraging behavioral change through expert-led sessions

Monthly or bi-monthly sessions will be held, including mobile dental camps for SSGC’s widespread field workforce.

Responsibilities and support

The collaboration outlines specific roles:

SSGC’s role:

• Provide venues, logistics, and transport support
• Fund educational materials and hygiene kits
• Promote the program via digital channels
• Recognize the effort through a closing ceremony and awards

PDA Karachi’s role:

• Conduct awareness lectures and Q&A sessions
• Supply expert dental professionals
• Distribute bilingual educational materials
• Share detailed reports and feedback after each session

Future impact and expansion

The program also plans to extend its outreach to retired employees and their families, ensuring broader community impact. This public-private health model reflects the shared responsibility of institutions in reducing oral disease burden and building a culture of prevention.

As oral health directly impacts overall wellbeing, this CSR initiative sets a powerful precedent for health-centered workplace collaborations across Pakistan.