11:51 | Geneva (Switzerland), May. 24.
The expanded health coverage, the climate change adaptation strategy, and the transformation of the mental health care system were the principal topics addressed by Peru's Health Minister Zulema Tomas at the 72nd
World Health Assembly in the Swiss city of Geneva.
"Peru is committed to the so-called universal health insurance to reach the Sustainable Development Goals and ensure that nobody is left behind," said the Health Ministry (Minsa) head in her keynote speech before representatives from 194
World Health Organization (WHO) member states.
She said the Inca country is making significant efforts to guarantee this right and that some progress is already being made.
"As for the
universal health insurance coverage, we've managed to provide this insurance to 90% of the population. We've also reduced chronic malnutrition among children from 28% to 12% with innovative approaches and new budgetary instruments," she stated.
Climate change and anemia
"With the support of WHO, Peru, and Spain, we have led a health and climate change initiative focused on promoting governments' commitment to better clean air standards for 2030. We call all countries and international organizations to join this initiative," Tomas exhorted.
Lastly, she said all State sectors —in Peru— have been engaged in reducing the rates of anemia and its negative impacts in children. Hence, the implementation of the Law on Healthy Eating as a concrete action to prevent overweight and obesity-related diseases, as well as reduce non-communicable illnesses.
(END) NDP/LIT/RMB/MVB
Published: 5/24/2019