Preventive healthcare

The advisory has already sparked economic repercussions, with media reports indicating a four per cent drop in the stock prices of major European and American alcohol producers following the announcement.

On the fight against cancer, Prime Minister commented about a study of the world-renowned Medical Journal Lancet which stated that the chances of starting cancer treatment on time in India have increased a lot.

The health impacts of the climate crisis do not fall evenly. Vulnerable populations — women, children, ethnic minorities, and those in poverty — bear the brunt.

Over the years, Sri Lanka has successfully eliminated major diseases like malaria, filariasis, polio, and neonatal tetanus, further solidifying its position as a regional healthcare leader.

Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) play a pivotal role in these community-level initiatives. ASHAs conduct home visits, organize group meetings, and participate in health campaigns to educate individuals and families about the importance of healthy lifestyles.

Highlighting positive economic indicators, the Prime Minister noted that the reduction in the policy rate would provide much-needed relief to businesses and investors.

Polio predominantly affects children under five and causes lifelong paralysis. Despite global eradication efforts, challenges such as vaccine hesitancy, misinformation, and security threats have hindered progress in the region.

In 2014, the WHO certified India as polio-free after three years without a single case of wild poliovirus. This was a moment of triumph, celebrated globally as a landmark achievement in public health.