Pakistan has reaffirmed its strong commitment to the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, the promotion of mental health and well-being. 

This was stated by Director General Health, Pakistan, Professor Dr Ayesha Isani Majeed while addressing the high-level meeting on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases, the promotion of mental health and well-being during the side event of 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, in New York.

She said Pakistan is facing an alarming increase in NCDs and has formulated a National Action Plan for non-communicable diseases and Mental Health to respond effectively.

She highlighted that Pakistan has one of the highest breast cancer rates in South East Asia, with one in every nine women at risk during their lifetime.

Using the Universal Health Care platform, the country has integrated breast and cervical screening at the Primary Health Care  level and introduced the HPV vaccine for girls aged 9 to 14 years to protect against cervical cancer.

Dr Ayesha said Pakistan is a signatory to the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control and enforces strict tobacco control laws, including 70% health warnings on cigarette packets. She added that sheesha smoking is now banned in public places, and a similar law is being introduced to restrict the use of vapes and other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems  in public.

She further stated that taxes on sugary drinks have been increased to 40%, and work is underway on climate and health initiatives, youth and community engagement, and alternate financing mechanisms to strengthen health services.