Maldives Seeks WHO Aid to Tackle Surge in Non-Communicable Diseases

The Maldives government has reached out to the World Health Organization (WHO) for assistance in investigating a concerning rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) within the country. 

Health Minister Dr. Abdulla Khaleel addressed the issue in a press briefing today, characterizing the situation as “alarmingly high”.

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According to Khaleel, the prevalence of NCDs has reached a troubling level, with these conditions contributing to 84 percent of fatalities in the Maldives, with 17 percent of those deaths attributed to cancer. 

Recognizing the financial burden of cancer treatment, Khaleel affirmed the government’s commitment to expanding coverage through initiatives such as the state health insurance provider Aasandha and the National Social Protection Agency (NSPA).

Presently, access to chemotherapy is limited to the capital, Male’ City, prompting many cancer patients to seek treatment abroad. Addressing plans for a dedicated cancer hospital, Khaleel stated that the government is conducting feasibility studies and aims to secure funding within the next one-and-a-half months.

The issue of a proposed cancer hospital has a history, with the previous administration planning its construction in L. Gan. However, the current government intends to build the facility in Male’ City, specifically on the parking area of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital (IGMH) and adjacent vacant land. 

Despite previous pledges from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to support such a project, including a team conducting surveys in 2019, tangible progress has yet to materialize.

Beyond cancer, the Maldives also grapples with high rates of other NCDs, notably diabetes, affecting 14 percent of the population. The government’s appeal to the WHO underscores the urgency of addressing these health challenges and underscores the importance of international collaboration in tackling public health crises.