“We Must Build a Healthy and Strong Generation”: Chief Adviser

Professor Dr Muhammad Yunus, the Chief Adviser, emphasised the critical need to nurture a healthy and strong generation, regardless of the challenges involved.

He made these remarks on Wednesday, 20 August, at his office during the signing ceremony of a “Joint Declaration” aimed at enhancing inter-ministerial cooperation for the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

The Chief Adviser stated that today’s gathering addresses a highly important issue in the health sector. He highlighted that skilled and capable human resources are essential for achieving national development and progress.

“Without effective human resource management, nothing – from individual wellbeing to national development – can be properly implemented,” he said.

Dr Yunus noted that non-communicable diseases are rapidly spreading worldwide, and Bangladesh’s circumstances make the situation particularly complex. Factors such as the country’s socio-economic conditions, geographic characteristics, and high population density in limited areas contribute to this challenge.

He stressed that NCD management is not merely a health sector issue, but closely linked to the national economy, social protection, and sustainable development.

According to the World Health Organization’s 2022 report, NCDs account for 71% of total deaths in Bangladesh, of which 51% occur in individuals under 70 years old, representing premature mortality.

Dr Yunus also pointed out that 69% of health expenditures in the country are out-of-pocket, with a significant portion spent on NCD treatment.

“People suffering from non-communicable diseases often face high medical costs. Families, particularly in cases of cancer, must expend their maximum financial capacity and frequently become helpless. In many cases, expensive treatment abroad is required, resulting in substantial amounts of money leaving the country,” he explained.

Dr Yunus stressed that while improving treatment facilities for NCDs is vital, it is equally important to prevent and reduce the incidence of these diseases through public awareness and effective control systems.

“The Health Services Department alone cannot handle this task. Integrated cooperation from all ministries is required. Every sector – including Food, Agriculture, Education, Sports, Local Government, and Public Works – has an important role to play. Each sector must develop precise action plans and undertake intensive initiatives,” he said.

For this purpose, the relevant ministries have been identified, and their responsibilities clearly defined.

Key Takeaways

Dr Yunus concluded by underscoring that inter-ministerial coordination is essential to ensure a sustainable and healthy future generation in Bangladesh, linking health management directly with national progress and socio-economic development.