WB grants $ 200 m to control non-communicable diseases: Rajitha

Minister of Health Dr. Rajitha Senaratne says that the World Bank has granted 200 million dollars to control Non-Communicable Diseases.

The Minister said this while attending a Health Walk organized by the Sri Lanka Medical Association under the theme ‘Balanced diet for a healthy body’ at the premises of the BMICH in Colombo.

Speaking to media after the walk, Minister Senaratne said physical exercise is essential to reduce non-communicable diseases and diet alone is not sufficient.He noted that 70% of the people in the world as also in Sri Lanka die of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and therefore physical exercise is essential since it reduces the occurrence of NCDs somewhat.

“We have established over 1,500 island wide wellness centres and early diagnosis of the NCDs is possible through these centres. We will introduce the concept of family physician. Our goal is to assign one doctor for 5,000 patients and obtain health records for each individual.”

The Minister said the World Bank has granted $ 200 million for the program and it is due to commence in August.

Minister Senaratne commended the effort by the Sri Lanka Medical Council to enlighten the people in reducing obesity.

Dr. Senaratne also handed over prizes to the winners of the health race and competitions.

Minister A.H.M. Fowzie, MP Dr. Sudarshini Fernandopulle, artists, and professionals were present on the occasion.