BANGKOK, Thailand – Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin revealed that 56.1% of Bangkok residents are affected by abdominal obesity, the highest rate in Thailand. The alarming statistic was disclosed during the launch of the campaign “Thais Stay Away from NCDs in Urban Living”, held at The Graph Hotel, Bangkok.
Minister Somsak emphasized that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) — including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer — have been declared a national agenda due to their growing burden on the healthcare system and their economic impact, costing Thailand an estimated 1.6 trillion baht annually.
He pointed out that urban lifestyles are a major risk factor for NCDs, with city dwellers facing faster-paced lives, higher stress levels, and weaker social ties than rural populations. Bangkok, in particular, reports not only the highest rate of abdominal obesity but also a diabetes rate of 12.5%, compared to the national average of 9.5%.
To tackle the issue, the Ministry of Public Health is equipping local health volunteers with the knowledge and tools to promote healthier behavior and raise awareness among city residents.
The event featured keynote lectures such as “The Minister Leads Health Volunteers to Count Carbs and Cut NCD Risks,” and “Managing NCDs in Urban Lifestyles.” Educational exhibition booths were also presented, highlighting topics such as:
-Preventive models in housing estates and high-rise communities
-Disease control by local and migrant health volunteers
-Managing diabetes during remission
-Sodium intake reduction strategies
-The “Dusit Low-Carb Menu Model”
-Influenza vaccination services
