The Suriname Ministry of Health is working with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to develop a national action plan against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) - the leading causes of death in our country, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory diseases. These diseases, compounded by risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet and lack of exercise, place a heavy burden on both public health and the economy.
While the National Strategic Framework for NCDs 2021-2028 previously provided guidance for policy action, the ministry recognizes that a sharply defined action plan is needed to secure concrete steps and results. This should include clear targets, funding sources and measurement tools, based on up-to-date local data. Crucial, moreover, is the involvement of partners from the healthcare sector, business and civil society organizations so that the plan is widely supported and can be effectively implemented.
To strengthen this support, the ministry is organizing a consultation round on Tuesday in the Banquet Hall of Hotel Torarica. During this meeting, policymakers, healthcare professionals and other stakeholders will exchange experiences and jointly formulate the building blocks for the action plan. With this approach, Suriname aims to ensure a teeth-gnashing approach against NCDs and thus sustainably promote the health of the population.
