PATTAYA, Thailand – Minister of Public Health Pattana Promphat announced that Thailand is accelerating health policies to address declining birth rates and the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Recent data shows that Thailand’s annual births have dropped to 454,006, the lowest in decades, with a total fertility rate of 0.93, far below the replacement level. At the same time, over 14 million people are affected by NCDs, resulting in more than 400,000 deaths each year.
Permanent Secretary for Public Health Dr. Somruek Juengsaman stated that as the population declines, improving the quality of life is a national priority. The Ministry identifies sedentary lifestyles as a key factor, with students and young adults averaging 14.3 hours of inactivity daily. Combined with poor nutrition, this has led to 9.2 million Thais being classified as overweight, adding to a healthcare burden of 1.6 trillion baht.
Director-General of the Department of Health Dr. Amporn Benjaponpitak presented a framework for monitoring health from pre-pregnancy through early childhood and reducing risks such as preterm birth, anemia, and developmental delays. The department is also promoting healthier behaviors through Healthy Canteens, improved school lunches, and reduced sugar intake.
The Ministry aims to reduce the population at risk for NCDs by at least 30% through proactive screening and community monitoring. This initiative is supported by community hospitals, district public health offices, and Village Health Volunteers (VHV) to ensure sustainable health security for all age groups as Thailand transitions into a complete aged society. (NNT)
