World Health Organization 66th Session of the Regional Committee for Western Pacific October 12th – October 16th 2015 | Tamuning, Guam, USA
Statement of International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations on Agenda Item 14.5: Noncummunicable Disease Prevention and Control Excellencies, Distinguished delegates, Ladies and Gentlemen, The International Federation of Medical Students’ Associations applauds and supports the implementation of the Western Pacific Regional Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and related efforts done during the last few years. Technical reports on NCDs have shown the progress on numerous fronts by the member states. We are glad to see the determination to fight against NCDs. However, despite all the achievements obtained, we still see room for improvement. Therefore, we urge member states: 1. To encourage the modification of lifestyle and eating habits. Member States should cooperate with national and local NGOs to advocate healthy lifestyles and implement appropriate measures which engage the food producers, retailers and caterers, ensuring the enhanced availability, accessibility and affordability of healthier food products. 2. Alongside active advocacy on sports and exercise, we urge governments to provide adequate facilities and education, which can incentivize citizens to exercise more. Furthermore, Member States should build up relevant partnerships and engage all stakeholders, governments, NGOs, civil society and economic operators. 3. To implement an integrated policy on family medicine and prevention, as NCDs should be combatted based on the family, the community and the society. Member States must cooperate with national civil groups to promote the understanding and awareness of NCDs and multisectoral committees should be established in order to provide strategic leadership and coordination. We remind you the commitment done by Member States during the approval of the sustainable development goals on September 25th: to reduce by 1/3 premature mortality from NCDs through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being by 2030. We hope to see a healthy Western Pacific physically, mentally and spiritually. With the help and commitment by Member States, we will see a healthy region in the foreseeable future. Contact Farhan Mari Isa IFMSA Regional Director for Asia Pacific rdasiapacific@ifmsa.org | www.ifmsa.org