Trafficking in human beings: the role of the dental team in identification.

Trafficking in human beings is considered a modern form of slavery. Most oral health professionals are not aware of this phenomenon. It is the third largest form of organized crime after drug dealing and arms sales. The first report of the EU Commission on the victims of (THB) in Europe reveals that there have been 23,632 global victims in the European Union over the period 2008-2010. Italy is a destination or transit country for men women and children who are subjected to force, fraud or coercion for the purpose of sexual exploitation or forced labor. The goal of governmental and Non-Governmental Agencies (NGAs), which are either directly or indirectly involved in combating trafficking in human beings, is the identification and referral of victims of trafficking and also to encourage self referrals. Identification is the most important step towards providing protection and assistance to victims of trafficking. Victims of human trafficking often have multiple physical and mental health needs which may include psychological trauma, injuries from violence, head and neck trauma, sexually transmitted infections and other gynecological problems, dental/oral problems and poor nutritional condition. Healthcare and dental settings may offer opportunities for the identification of trafficked victims and oral health professionals, along with other health care providers, could play a part in recognizing, protecting and reporting possible victims of trafficking. Experience in the field of community dentistry are presented here through the dental services offered to non-EU patients in Bari (Italy). Dental professionals and forensic experts can in fact, contribute to the identification, assistance and protection of trafficked persons, as well as offering forensic services to assist police investigation in order to identify crime and locate the criminal organizations behind them. A check list of behavioral signs and general health indicators are proposed to oral health professional to raise awareness and contribute to the interdisciplinary approach of recognition and identification of trafficked victims. As for domestic violence and child abuse cases, there are ethical concerns involved in the identification and protection of the trafficked persons, and a need for interdisciplinary work between law enforcement officers, social care providers and health and forensic professionals. The authors recommend that adequate training be given in forensic sciences and behavioral science, augmented by intercultural sensitivities, thus helping the dental team in the identification of these patients, in order to fulfill both medical and ethical obligations