Data on the relative levels of men's and women's dental health are scarce, but the available data do indicate differences in tooth loss and health-related behavior patterns. Better methods for recording and reporting this information are recommended. (MSE)

Research on women's dental health and on differences between men's and women's dental health issues is reviewed. Factors specifically influencing women's health, including medical, economic, social, psychological, and behavioral factors, are also examined. It is argued that the clustering of risk factors for women indicates a need for more…

Asserts that a substantial improvement in the diversity of the oral health student body and eventual workforce is a critical element to achieving the goals of improving oral health and quality of life and eliminating health disparities. Offers data about the disparities, and discusses the role of the Office of the Surgeon General and of dental…

A discussion of the need for better research on women's health looks at significant gender differences that are factors in health and health education (longevity, poverty, use of medical services, doctor-patient interaction, and women in dentistry) as well aspects of research methodology that need improvement. (MSE)

Discusses the establishment of Minority Affairs Offices in dental schools, which follow the American Association of Medical Colleges' model as one method of addressing the declining enrollment and compounding oral health disparities of underrepresented minorities--African Americans, Hispanics, and Native Americans. (EV)

A handbook of health issues for college students is presented. Prevention is the keynote, stressing the importance of staying healthy and recovering quickly. Information is organized in a question-and-answer format. The 12 chapters are as follows: nutrition: food as fuel (e.g. acne and diet and daily caloric requirements); exercise: fine-tuning…

A dental educator offers suggestions for the future role of dental schools and of dental education programs in greater recognition of the importance of women's oral health. Specific interventions addressing current and future health care needs are outlined. Curriculum, accreditation, legislation, and information dissemination are considered. (MSE)