Minister of Health Dr. Abdulla Khaleel has unveiled plans to launch a comprehensive research initiative aimed at identifying the root causes of prevalent non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the Maldives. This announcement came in response to concerns raised by parliamentarians regarding the escalating incidence of NCDs, particularly cancer, within the country.
During a parliamentary session, several parliamentarians expressed apprehension about the rapid spread of NCDs and the growing number of cancer cases. In light of these concerns, Minister Khaleel affirmed the government's commitment to address the nation's health burden caused by NCDs. He emphasised the necessity of conducting thorough research in collaboration with organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and foreign institutes.
Minister Khaleel acknowledged the alarming prevalence of NCDs in Maldivian society, with statistics indicating that approximately 84% of deaths in the country are attributed to such diseases. He underscored the urgent need to understand the underlying factors contributing to the rise of NCDs, including cancer, particularly in certain high-risk areas.
The proposed research initiative aims to delve into the primary causes of NCDs, providing insights that can inform targeted interventions and public health policies. By partnering with international organizations and leveraging their expertise, the Ministry of Health seeks to develop evidence-based strategies to combat the growing health challenges posed by NCDs.
As NCDs continue to pose a significant health threat to the Maldivian population, Minister Khaleel's announcement signals a proactive step towards addressing this pressing public health issue through rigorous research and collaborative efforts.