Kuala Lampur, July 14 -- In recent months, reports of rising HIV infections in Malaysia have once again made national headlines. The data paints a troubling picture: a noticeable increase in new cases, particularly among young Malaysians, some as young as 18.

These statistics are more than just numbers - they represent real lives, real futures at risk. And while the HIV epidemic has long been associated with the medical field, this concerning trend invites a broader question: where else can we intervene earlier? For those of us in the dental profession, the answer may lie closer than we think.

Dentists are often not the first profession that comes to mind when considering HIV detection. Yet we are uniquely positioned to play a crucial r...