MUSCAT : The MOH is currently conducting the pilot phase of the survey’s second phase in various governorates, aiming to gather vital data to improve community health. The survey aims to gather valuable data on the prevalence of non-communicable diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases, which are key public health concerns.

Residents and citizens are encouraged to engage with the survey teams, offering their full cooperation to ensure the success of this important health initiative. The ministry also advised the public to avoid falling victim to rumours or misinformation circulating about the survey and instead to rely solely on information from official sources.

It is pertinent to note that in Oman non-communicable diseases contribute to 80 percent of deaths and cost around one billion Omani Rials annually, representing a significant burden on the national economy.

Every year, more than 6,500 new cases of diabetes are recorded, over 2,000 new cancers are diagnosed, one in three individuals suffers from high blood pressure, and 66 percent of the population are overweight or obese. These indicators highlight a high and growing health burden that impacts the healthy life expectancy of the population, necessitating strengthened efforts in prevention, early detection, and effective treatment.

Oman has strengthened its healthcare system to address the challenges of these diseases through early screening programs for diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney failure, tobacco control strategies, and promoting physical activity and healthy nutrition. The national survey is a vital step in providing accurate data on the risk factors associated with these diseases. This data will enable policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals to develop effective policies to improve citizens’ health and reduce morbidity and mortality rates.

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