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The Maldives has received a special WHO award after reaching key health targets early and maintaining major progress in preventing serious diseases.
Mariyam Adheela
Health Minister Geela Ali receives the WHO award recognizing the Maldives’ health achievements. Photo: Ministry of Health
Timor Leste: The World Health Organization has recognized the Maldives for major progress in healthcare, including reducing premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases and eliminating maternal and neonatal tetanus.
The Maldives reached its target for reducing premature deaths from heart disease, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases four years before the 2030 deadline. It is the only country in South East Asia to have reached the target so far.
The Maldives has also maintained the elimination of maternal and neonatal tetanus for 10 years. Maternal tetanus can affect women during pregnancy or after childbirth. Neonatal tetanus can affect newborn babies.
The award was presented during the WHO South East Asia Regional Committee meeting in Timor Leste. Health, Family and Social Services Minister Geela Ali accepted the award on behalf of the Maldives from WHO Director General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
WHO said the progress reflects efforts by the government and the wider community. The organization has previously recognized the Maldives for tobacco control measures and for becoming the first country to eliminate mother to child transmission of HIV, syphilis and hepatitis B.
