Thai Prime Minister Champions Carb Counting to Combat Mounting Non-Communicable Diseases
Chiang Mai, Thailand – At a buzzing event hosted by the International Convention and Exhibition Center in Chiang Mai, Thai Prime Minister Pae Thongthan Shinawatra launched the 6th round of the "Driving Policy: Thai People Free from Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases" initiative.
This ambitious program, responding to the Prime Minister’s commitment to bolster public health, focuses on empowering communities to actively combat chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The program is particularly focused on the role of Village Health Volunteers, who play a crucial part in promoting healthy lifestyle changes within their communities.
"Our body is like a house," Shinawatra stated, addressing the gathered crowd. "If our house is clean and well-ventilated, we feel comfortable and relaxed. Taking care of ourselves, knowing which foods reduce our risk of illness, will keep us safe from non-communicable diseases."
The Prime Minister emphasized that these diseases, while not contagious, pose a significant threat to the well-being of Thai citizens. This initiative, she explained, provides knowledge and tools to prevent and manage these conditions, highlighting the importance of simple, everyday choices: "If people get sick less often, they have better health overall. The government also saves money by spending less on treating chronic illnesses. This is a win for both the people and the government."
Shinawatra enthusiastically kicked off the program’s carb-counting component, urging citizens to make informed dietary choices. "If you eat starch, it will eventually turn into sugar. Now that other options are available, I want people to choose (healthier alternatives).
The event, held in honor of the 7th Anniversary of His Majesty the King’s Cycling Birthday, saw thousands of Thai citizens participate, both in person and virtually. Significant government officials, including Deputy Prime Minister Prasert Chandraruangthong and Minister of Public Health Somsak Thepsuthin, joined in supporting the program.
Minister Thepsuthin highlighted the government’s commitment to supporting Village Health Volunteers through the proposed Village Health Volunteer Act. "The Village Health Volunteers are the backbone of this initiative," he stressed.
This act, currently pending legislative approval, aims to provide increased funding and resources for these vital community health workers. The proposed funding will be generated from various sources, including confiscated funds from drug dealers.
The Minister also revealed plans for a low-interest loan program for Village Health Volunteers, facilitated through the Bank for Agriculture and Agricultural Cooperatives (BAAC).
"Our policy today is clear: we can tackle these non-communicable diseases through the collaboration of Village Health Volunteers," declared Thepsuthin.
The program’s focus on carb counting, based on the respected Harris Benedict Equation formula for calculating calorie needs, is part of a comprehensive strategy to address diet-related chronic diseases in Thailand.
The "Driving Policy: Thai People Free from Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases" initiative underscores the Thai government’s proactive approach to public health, empowering communities and embracing innovative strategies in the fight against chronic disease.
2024-11-30 11:50:00
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## Counting Carbs, Counting on change: An Exclusive Interview with Thai PM on Fighting Non-Communicable Diseases
**Chiang Mai, Thailand** – In a bold move to tackle Thailand’s growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Prime Minister Pae Thongthan Shinawatra has thrown his weight behind a community-focused carb-counting initiative. “Driving Policy: Thai people free from Chronic Non-communicable Diseases”, now in its sixth round, aims to empower citizens with the knowledge and tools to actively prevent and manage conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers.
**World Today News** sat down with Prime Minister Shinawatra to discuss this innovative approach and its potential impact on the nation’s health.
**WTN:** prime Minister, your commitment to addressing NCDs is commendable. Why focus on carb counting as a key strategy?
**PM Shinawatra:** Thailand, like many nations, faces a rising tide of NCDs. These diseases not only impact individual well-being but also place a significant strain on our healthcare system.
Research has consistently shown the link between excessive carbohydrate intake, particularly refined sugars, and the progress of NCDs. Carb counting provides a practical, tangible approach for individuals to understand and manage their carbohydrate consumption, empowering them to make healthier dietary choices.
**WTN:** How will this initiative translate into actionable changes for communities?
**PM Shinawatra:** This isn’t just about promoting awareness; it’s about tangible support and access. We are investing in nationwide educational programs, training community health workers, and providing resources like carb counting apps and nutritional guidance to ensure that individuals have the tools they need.
Collaboration is key. We are partnering with schools, workplaces, and local organizations to integrate carb-conscious practices into daily life, making healthy choices the norm rather than the exception.
**WTN:** Critics argue that focusing solely on carb counting may be overly simplistic and neglect other important factors in NCD prevention.
**PM Shinawatra:** We recognize that NCD prevention is multifaceted and requires a holistic approach. Carb counting is just one piece of the puzzle.
We are simultaneously promoting physical activity, encouraging balanced diets rich in fruits and vegetables, and working to reduce risk factors like smoking and alcohol consumption. Carb counting serves as a vital tool within this broader framework, empowering individuals to take control of their diet and health.
**WTN:** Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for this initiative’s impact on Thailand’s future?
**PM Shinawatra:** Our vision is a healthier Thailand, where individuals are empowered to lead
longer, more fulfilling lives free from the burden of NCDs. We are confident that this initiative, through its emphasis on community engagement, education, and accessible resources, will contribute significantly towards making this vision a reality.
**WTN:** Thank you for your time and insights, Prime Minister.
**PM Shinawatra:** It is indeed my pleasure.
The success of ”Driving Policy: thai People Free from Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases” will ultimately be measured by its ability to translate knowledge into action, creating a healthier and brighter future for the people of Thailand.
