Text by Cherry Madrideo with Inputs from the Museum of a History of Ideas
Photos by the Museum of a History of Ideas

The Museum of a History of Ideas (MHI) concluded the National Dental Health Month celebration and held a symposium on the history, cultural significance, and oral health impacts of betel nut chewing in the Philippines on Feb. 28, 2025.

Themed “Smiles Through Time: Unraveling Betel Nut Chewing and Embracing Oral Wellness in the Philippines,” professors engaged in an interdisciplinary discussion on oral health in the country in the context of betel nut chewing. At this intersection of culture and health were Dr. Leonardo Estacio Jr. from the behavioral sciences, Dr. Ma. Jasminda Liza Ceron from the archaeological sciences, and Dr. Arlene Cecilia Alfaro from the field of dental medicine. Dr. Armin Segarra, a dentist, served as the moderator. Students from the Colleges of Arts and Sciences and Dentistry joined the discussion.

Popularly known as nga nga, the betel nut is known for its psychoactive and ethno-therapeutic properties. It also serves a communal role in socialization and ritual. The symposium highlighted how the practice of betel nut chewing has been present in the Philippines since prehistory, making it a significant part of the culture and traditions of many Filipinos.

However, while studies–though limited–have shown that it can cause oral health problems such as oral cancer and tooth decay, culturally sensitive health campaigns and community-based dialogues became important in ensuring that the oral health of betel nut chewers is protected while respecting the long history and tradition of the practice.

The MHI expressed hope that the symposium would serve as a meaningful step toward fostering greater cultural awareness and promoting improved oral health maintenance.#