78th GCC ministerial conference begins, Kuwait showcases experience

The 78th GCC health ministers' conference got underway here on Wednesday and the Kuwaiti minister addressed attendees about accomplishments that have been jointly and nationally made in this vital sector.
Dr. Ali Al-Obaidi, Kuwait's Minister of Health, also chairman of the previous round of the GCC executive health council, shed light on the accomplishments, such as the GCC leaders' adoption, at Doha's summit in December, the ministers' plan for combating communicable diseases (2014-2025).
He expressed satisfaction at the GCC countries' success in "facing challenges against health sectors, with continuing coordination, joint action and expertise exchange." In Kuwait, the health sector is considered a priority, he said, shedding light on outcome of the national program for combating tobacco, aids, as well as works of another commission charged with combating chronic diseases.
The minister said the Kuwaiti accomplishments at this level included special care programs for the elderly, safety of food and patients. In January 2014, the "Kuwait document" was proclaimed, designed to fight non-communicable and chronic diseases.
Dr. Al-Obaidi spoke at length about tangible steps that have been taken at the national level, noting in this respect the hosting of diverse GCC meetings.
The current meeting tackles issues such as non-communicable diseases, combating cancer, cooperation criteria with health associations, combating smoking, occupational health, statistical bulletin and basic health indicators.