The mouth and AIDS : lessons learned and emerging challenges in global oral health: introduction

International oral and dental health in HIV diseaseIt became clear some 25 years ago that for the Oral AIDS community to be able to make an impact, international workshops identifying the major global challenges were needed.There was also a need to agree on a classification and criteria for the identification of oral lesions.The subsequent seven world workshops have been held over the last 28 years in San Diego, USA (1986); San Francisco, USA (1992); London, UK (1996); Skukuza, South Africa (2000); Phuket, Thailand (2004); and Beijing, China (2009).The 7th World Workshop on Oral Health and Disease in AIDS was held in Hyderabad, India, 6-9 November 2014, sharing the aims below and also aimed to identify the major research questions relating to the aetiology, diagnosis, treatment and social impact of oral HIV lesions.These workshops have led to an ever changing international research agenda which informed the research strategy of NIDCR, especially with regard to the Oral HIV & AIDS Research agenda (OHARA). The strategic goals of International Oral AIDS Collaborations remain:1 To bring together clinicians and non-clinical scientists who have an interest in the oral manifestations of HIV disease, whether clinical, basic mechanisms or treatment.2 To share worldwide perspectives, knowledge and understanding of oral health and disease in HIV infection.3 To agree definitions and classifications of HIVrelated oral diseases worldwide.4 To identify research needs taking account of the global perspectives and opportunities.