The Ministry of Health in Aden celebrates World Tropical Diseases Day.

On Thursday, January 30, the Ministry of Public Health and Population in Yemen celebrated World Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) Day in the temporary capital, Aden. This annual observance aims to raise awareness about these diseases and the ongoing efforts to combat them.

Minister Highlights Ongoing Health Challenges

Dr. Qassem Baheeb, the Minister of Public Health and Population, emphasized the ministry’s commitment to addressing NTDs, noting that Yemen continues to grapple with 13 different diseases in this category. He stated that many of these diseases can be eradicated through the establishment of effective health programs and the enhancement of the ministry’s organizational structure.

Training Initiatives for Health Workers

Dr. Baheeb announced that the National Health Institute will focus on training health personnel at both central and peripheral levels to better manage these diseases. This initiative aims to strengthen the healthcare system’s capacity to respond to NTDs effectively.

Strategic Importance of Awareness

Dr. Ali Al-Walidi, the Undersecretary of the Ministry for Primary Health Care, explained that the celebration of World NTDs Day aligns with the ministry’s strategic plans. He highlighted that this event serves as a platform to educate the public about these diseases and to unify efforts to eliminate them.

Global and National Goals

Dr. Ahmed Qaed from the World Health Organization (WHO) office stressed the importance of raising awareness about neglected tropical diseases. He called for collective action to eliminate these diseases in accordance with global, regional, and national plans for the years 2021 to 2030.

Overview of NTDs and Prevention Strategies

Dr. Saleh Al-Dubahi, an advisor to the Minister of Health on NTDs, presented a comprehensive overview of the various neglected tropical diseases, their transmission methods, and effective preventive measures. He also discussed the challenges faced in combating these diseases, underscoring the need for continued efforts and resources.

The observance of World NTDs Day in Yemen highlights the ongoing commitment to improving public health and addressing the challenges posed by neglected tropical diseases. Through education, training, and strategic planning, the Ministry of Public Health and Population aims to make significant strides in this critical area of healthcare.

 

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