Health ministry finalising plan to deal with NCDs

The Minister of Health, Dr. Fenton Ferguson says his ministry is in the process of finalising the first comprehensive strategic plan for the prevention and control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).



The plan is aimed at addressing the four main NCDs that cause death and morbidity in Jamaica.



These are cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and chronic respiratory diseases.



Tobacco smoking, lack of exercise, poor nutrition and alcohol will also be addressed, as they are seen as the four major risk factors for the diseases.



Dr. Fenton Ferguson said he is concerned about the cost of treatment for NCDs and that they negatively impact the quality of life of citizens as well as emotionally burden care givers.



The plan has been subjected to broad stakeholder consultation and the Health Ministry said the stakeholders have given their support for it.



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