Health Minister Raises Alarm Over Rising Mental Illness And NCDs

The Minister of Health, Abdulla Nazim Ibrahim, has raised concerns over the growing prevalence of mental illnesses, particularly among young people and the working-age population, alongside a sharp increase in non-communicable diseases in the Maldives.

The Minister made the remarks at the closing ceremony of the country’s first Universal Health Coverage forum, where he highlighted the urgent need for inclusive and high-quality healthcare to address emerging health challenges.

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He noted that while the Maldives has achieved significant progress in maternal and child health and the elimination of several communicable diseases, non-communicable diseases now account for 84 percent of all deaths nationwide. He also pointed to the continued dependence on overseas treatment for such conditions, stressing the importance of strengthening domestic healthcare capacity and infrastructure.

The Minister further warned that climate change is intensifying health risks, with impacts on food security, mental health, and overall well-being of the population.

In response to these challenges, the government is developing a roadmap for 2026 to 2030 to advance Universal Health Coverage, with a focus on expanding primary healthcare and enhancing specialised services. Planned initiatives include improved cancer screening services and the establishment of a national mental health helpline. Efforts are also underway under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu to expand air ambulance services and improve urban and tertiary healthcare facilities.

The forum highlighted Universal Health Coverage as a key component of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, aimed at ensuring equitable and accessible healthcare for all citizens. The proposed measures are intended to align with international best practices while addressing local needs, including the digitisation of healthcare services.