Ministry of Health, along with World Health Organization (WHO), launched a national non-communicable diseases prevention campaign in the Maldives. The national non-communicable diseases prevention campaign was launched by Minister of Health Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim and World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South East Asia, Dr. Poonam Kethrapal Singh at a ceremony held at Paradise Island Resort.
After the launching the campaign, Maldivian Health Minister spoke about the assistance rendered by WHO to the Maldives in tackling health related issues, especially the cooperation provided by the world body for the no-tobacco endeavor of Maldives. Speaking at the ceremony, the WHO Regional Director reiterated and commended Maldives for its achievements in the health sector, urging regional countries to take Maldives as an example. The increasing predicament of non-communicable diseases is a major setback to health sector worldwide, including the Maldives.
Latest statistics shows that currently 80% of the deaths occurring in Maldives are attributed to non-communicable diseases. The new campaign by Health Ministry and WHO will include all stakeholders from government authorities, private sector and non-governmental organisations. The campaign aims to increase awareness about non-communicable diseases amongst public and will promote a more holistic approach to life than leading one which is sedentary.
Meanwhile, on the sidelines of the event, Health Protection Agency of Maldives (HPA) has also launched a special award for households with no smokers. HPA has now publicised the policy in which they will provide awards for households with no smokers. The award was introduced to urge residents to lead a more healthy life, according to HPA.