Dhaka, Aug 20 (V7N) – A joint declaration aimed at the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) was signed by 35 ministries in the presence of Chief Advisor Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus on Wednesday.

The signing ceremony, held at Shapla Hall of the Chief Advisor's Office in Tejgaon, underscored the government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare systems to address the rising burden of NCDs.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Yunus stressed that improving treatment for NCDs requires a comprehensive control system that involves all ministries, not just the Ministry of Health.

“A huge amount of money goes abroad every year for advanced treatment of non-communicable diseases. No matter the challenges, we must create a healthy environment and develop skilled human resources to address this crisis,” he said.

The Chief Advisor also urged young people to play a proactive role in resisting tobacco use, one of the leading causes of NCDs. He added that the World Health Organization (WHO) recently praised Bangladesh’s health sector reforms after August 5.

Highlighting the scale of the problem, Dr. Yunus noted that 71% of deaths in Bangladesh are caused by NCDs, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses. He emphasized that both government and private sector initiatives are crucial to effectively implement the joint declaration and establish a healthier society.

END/SMA/AJ