Health ministry launches new study on cardiovascular and non-communicable diseases in Seychelles |18 August 2023

The Ministry of Health is launching a new population-based survey on cardiovascular disease and other non-communicable diseases which will span from mid-August until December 2023.

In a press release issued yesterday, the ministry said the study will assess the distribution of health behaviours, diet and main risk factors in the whole population, including high blood pressure, diabetes, blood lipid disorders, kidney function, and arteries.

“The study will also investigate if abnormal conditions, whenever present, are well controlled as well as screening habits for various diseases,” it read.

The health ministry said eligible participants to this study, aged 18 to 74 years, have been selected randomly from the 2022 National Census, with the help of the Seychelles Bureau of Statistics.

“It is expected that around 1,500 persons will participate in the study. Participants will receive results of their tests as well as personalised medical counselling and a voucher as a token of appreciation for their time and participation,” added the press release.

The study is funded by the Ministry of Health but with the support from the Seychelles Petroleum Company (Seypec) and Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB).

Preliminary results of the study will be available by early 2024. The study will provide important data to inform and strengthen public health policy and health care programmes related to non-communicable diseases.

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