Chief Adviser: NCD joint declaration marks a new milestone in safeguarding public health

Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus today said the "Joint Declaration" on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) will serve as a new milestone in safeguarding public health and will help Bangladesh achieve its health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Speaking at the signing ceremony at his office, he noted that the declaration reflects a renewed collective commitment to strengthen national health protection, stressing that it must be translated into continuous action rather than remain a one-time event.

Prof Yunus expressed confidence that the declaration’s implementation would make public health programmes more dynamic, contributing to both SDGs and post-SDG agendas. He warned that NCDs are spreading globally, with Bangladesh facing particular challenges due to its socioeconomic conditions, geographic realities, and high population density.

Citing a 2022 WHO report, he said 71 percent of deaths in Bangladesh are caused by NCDs, with 51 percent occurring prematurely before the age of 70. Out-of-pocket health expenditure in Bangladesh stands at 69 percent, most of which goes toward NCD treatment, forcing many families into financial distress, and in some cases driving patients abroad at high cost.

He stressed the urgency of raising awareness, improving prevention, and strengthening treatment systems. Addressing NCDs, he said, requires coordination beyond the Health Services Division—engaging ministries responsible for food, agriculture, education, sports, local government, and public works. Action plans must therefore be comprehensive and inter-ministerial.

Prof Yunus underscored the need for health-friendly national policies, prioritizing the health of children, adolescents, and women. He called for urgent public awareness on tobacco and sugar consumption and emphasized turning healthy lifestyles into a social movement through education and civic responsibility.

The chief adviser highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships and global cooperation, especially with support from the World Health Organization. He said successful implementation requires not only collaboration but also proper monitoring, skilled manpower, and adequate financial resources.

Earlier, Prof Yunus handed over the signed declaration to senior secretaries. Secretaries from 35 ministries, along with Health Adviser Nurjahan Begum, Special Assistant Professor Dr Md Sayedur Rahman, WHO Regional Director Dr Thaksaphon Thamarangsi, and senior government officials attended the event.