March 7, 2025
THIMPHU – The rising prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country has become a pressing concern for the Ministry of Health (MoH), with the recent national screenings revealing a worrying rise in cases.
At the meet-the-press on Tuesday, Health Minister Tandin Wangchuk said that much like many other countries, Bhutan is grappling with a surge in mortality and morbidity due to NCDs, driven largely by a diet high in carbohydrates, animal fats, and salt.
He explained that the dietary habits of the Bhutanese people, combined with excessive alcohol consumption, have exacerbated the problem. “The rise in the use of tobacco in the general population is also contributing to the burden of non-communicable diseases in general, and cardiovascular diseases in particular.”
To combat these growing health challenges, MoH has launched several key initiatives aimed at early detection, prevention, and lifestyle changes. One such measure was a large-scale screening and awareness campaign conducted from November 14 to December 7 last year.
The initiative included public education on the importance of a healthy diet, regular physical activity, the harmful use of alcohol, and the ill effects of tobacco use.
Recognising that many individuals may have missed the initial screenings, the ministry has launched a follow-up effort in Thimphu to ensure greater coverage and accessibility.
In addition, the government is also targeting youth, focusing on preventive health measures among students.
“An action plan for NCD screening and awareness programmes in all high schools, colleges, and institutions in Thimphu has been prepared, finalised, and rolled out on 12th February 2025,” Lyonpo said.
In addition to medical screenings, the government has prioritised physical activity. Since 2015, more than 100 outdoor gym sets have been installed across the country, with ongoing maintenance efforts to ensure their continued use.Last year alone, 43 gym sets were provided to monastic institutions, promoting physical activity within religious communities.
The health minister said addressing NCDs requires a collaborative effort that extends beyond the health sector. “Combating and resolving the challenges presented by NCDs is not the responsibility of the health sector alone. A whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach is critical for forging an effective response to NCDs,” Lyonpo said.
To this end, the MoH has developed the Multisectoral Action Plan-II (MSAP, 2025-2030) for the prevention and control of NCDs.
“The MSAP-II is a comprehensive approach that ensures broader action, while policy integration allows different sectors to implement supportive measures such as taxation on alcohol, tobacco, unhealthy diets, promotion of physical activity and healthy diets, enforcement of rules and regulations, creating awareness, and enhancing medical treatment and access to essential supplies,” Lyonpo said
The strategy is aligned with the 13th Plan, 2025 NCD targets, and Sustainable Development Goals.
With the finalisation and implementation of MSAP-II, the MoH is optimistic about initiating a whole-of-society approach to fight NCDs.
Lyonpo said citizens must take personal responsibility for their health, emphasising the importance of lifestyle changes.