Exploring the dental public health focus of corporate social responsibility disclosures in Indian companies: A content analysis

Objectives: This study aimed to analyze health-related corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives of leading Indian companies, with a specific focus on the inclusion of oral health and tobacco cessation activities and alignment with Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 3 and SDG 17. Methods: A structured content analysis was conducted on CSR reports, sustainability disclosures, and statutory filings of 50 top-listed Indian companies for the financial year 2023–2024. A standardized checklist was used to extract data on types of health initiatives, oral health inclusion, tobacco cessation programs, and evidence of partnerships with governmental, non-governmental, and academic institutions. Results: All companies reported engagement in general health initiatives, including cancer screening, maternal and child health, non-communicable disease prevention, and mobile health services. None of the companies reported exclusive oral health programs. Tobacco cessation activities were reported by 12% of companies, primarily integrated within broader health initiatives. More than 70% demonstrated alignment with SDG 17 through documented partnerships. Outcome reporting remained limited, with emphasis placed on input and output indicators rather than long-term health impact. Conclusions: While CSR initiatives substantially contribute to general healthcare promotion in India, oral health and tobacco cessation remain underrepresented. Strategic advocacy is needed to integrate dental screening and preventive oral health programs within corporate CSR frameworks to strengthen alignment with national public health priorities and SDGs.