President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih has stated major healthcare concerns could be avoided and public health could be improved with more comprehensive and inclusive social awareness. Attending the ceremony held to mark the Golden Jubilee Anniversary of Hithadhoo Health Centre in Laamu Atoll, the president noted that the mounting problem of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in the country.
The president highlighted that NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and chronic respiratory diseases, were associated with unhealthy lifestyle choices, abuse of tobacco and excessive consumption of unsafe food products including junk food and products high in sugar. Noting the means to address challenges in the health sector starts with increasing public awareness on the dangers of such diseases, the President underlined that protecting and improving public health and their communities was a top priority of the administration.
Highlighting the administration preferred a holistic approach to all-inclusive and accessible healthcare, the president spoke about ongoing health sector development plans. In this regard, president mentioned the administration’s strategy of developing five tertiary hospitals across the country.
Speaking further about the recently ratified amendment to the decentralisation act, President Solih stated that it broadens the role of health centres and the role of local councils in improving public health.