Africa-Press – Mauritius. The World Health Organization (WHO) will provide technical support for the use of of non-invasive glucose testing using saliva samples. The Minister of Health and Wellness, Mr Anil Kumar Bachoo made this statement in Ebene during a press conference in presence of the WHO Regional Director for Africa, Dr Mohamed Janabi, who is an official visit to Mauritius.
Minister Bachoo extended gratitude to the WHO for its technical and strategic support in strengthening the country’s healthcare system and reaffirmed commitment to partnering with the international organisation.
The Minister further pointed out that the WHO has pledged to help through several initiatives, including bridging specialised skills gaps in oncology, vascular surgery, and invasive cardiology, as well as facilitating the posting of a neurosurgeon. “The organisation will also support the country in the launch of a national campaign on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), focusing on diabetes prevention, early detection, and promoting healthy lifestyles’’, he said.
Mr Bachoo also drew attention on the alarming situation regarding NCDs in the country, recalling that obesity and diabetes account for approximately 85% of mortality nationwide.
As reported by the Mauritius Nutrition Survey 2023, 43% of adolescents are already prediabetic. Nearly one in three Mauritians lives with either prediabetes or diabetes, while almost one in three affected individuals remains undiagnosed.
Dr Janabi reiterated that WHO will work collaboratively with the Mauritian Government in various programmes on NCDs. The Regional Director further indicated that the international organisation will provide continued support through public awareness initiatives, technical training, with particular focus on areas critical to Small Island Developing States, including access to medicines and specialised services.
