In Bhutan, Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) account for over 70% of deaths. To address this, the Ministry of Health is implementing an enhanced strategic plan with a focus on advocacy, raising community awareness, multi-sectoral engagement, and strengthening healthcare capacity. The National Workshop for Strengthening Noncommunicable Diseases Risks Interventions gathered experts to address the pressing challenges posed by cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers and mental health disorders.

The Health Secretary in his keynote address emphasized the need for immediate action and multi-sectoral collaboration to tackle these issues. He urged all participants to commit to leveraging their expertise to create effective strategies that will lead to a healthier future for all.

To effectively reduce the burden of NCDs, the inclusion of diverse stakeholders is crucial. WHO experts proposed actionable strategies such as enhancing health promotion, encouraging behavioral change, and advocating for tobacco taxation and adherence to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). Additionally, promoting physical activity, healthy eating habits, addressing mental health issues and disabilities, are vital.