NEW YORK, NY – As part of a Hispanic CSR program targeting the Latino community, Colgate-Palmolive is promoting diabetes awareness and the importance of proper oral care during November’s American Diabetes Month. With approximately 2.5 million Hispanic Americans suffering from diabetes or insulin resistance syndrome (pre-diabetes), proper oral care and oral health education have become increasingly important among this at-risk community.
The U.S. Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health describes the connection between good oral health and good overall health. Seeking proper dental care and maintaining good oral health are specifically vital to living well with diabetes. Emerging research supports a two-way relationship between diabetes and periodontitis (serious gum disease). Not only are people with diabetes more susceptible to serious gum disease, but if left untreated, serious gum disease may affect their ability to control blood glucose levels and potentially increase their risk of other complications of diabetes.
“As the global oral care leader in the Hispanic market, Colgate-Palmolive is dedicated providing oral health education to Hispanics managing diabetes and health professionals,” said David Cardona, Marketing Director, U.S. Multicultural Marketing, Colgate-Palmolive. “Living with high blood sugar can take a toll on your entire body, including your teeth and gums. During American Diabetes Month, Colgate-Palmolive will continue to promote the association between oral health and diabetes, as well as the practical steps to help improve oral and possibly overall health.”
As part of their multi-year educational collaboration, Colgate-Palmolive will continue to partner with the American Diabetes Association (ADA) to help educate medical professionals and diabetes patients about the association between oral health and diabetes. As part of this year’s outreach, Colgate-Palmolive will be targeting Hispanic Americans via in-store activities, educational materials and participation in the American Diabetes Association’s 3rd Annual “Feria de Salud Por Tu Familia” (“Health Fair For Your Family”). This national, outdoor festival provides health screenings, cooking demonstrations and diabetes education.
Journalist and Colgate Total spokesperson Myrka Dellanos, is supporting this educational initiative by publicly sharing her own experience living with diabetes and the importance of brushing daily with an anti-bacterial toothpaste, such as Colgate Total toothpaste — the brand most recommended by dentists.
“Diabetics don’t have to take a step back; they can live life to the fullest,” said Myrka. “Understanding the connection between oral health and diabetes and other health conditions is an important part of managing the condition. Daily brushing and flossing, regular dental check-ups and good blood glucose control are the best defenses against the oral complications of diabetes.”
On behalf of Colgate Total, Myrka will be telling her story alongside Dr. R. Ivan Lugo, former President of the Hispanic Dental Association and a leading dental health advocate in the Hispanic community.
“The Latino population has the lowest incidence of dental visits when compared to any other ethnicity. This fact reinforces the importance of regular dental check-ups,” Dr. Lugo said. “It is vital for diabetics to maintain good oral hygiene, floss regularly and brush twice a day with a toothpaste that has antibacterial benefits, like Colgate Total.”