Minister of Public Health Victor Atallah continues on his crusade to improve nutrition as part of the new preventive health programs underway since he was named to the position in January 2024. He is taking all speaking opportunities to present the advances in public health and the concerns for an increase in obesity, particularly in children.
Dr. Atallah, a functional medicine practitioner, underscores the government’s commitment to transforming the nation’s dietary habits, preventing diseases, and enhancing the overall well-being of Dominicans. As part of these efforts, the Ministry has commissioned 18 research studies on dietary behaviors and health across various population segments.
Speaking at the World Food Day celebration on 16 October 2024, Dr. Atallah emphasized the pivotal role of medical research and proper nutrition in fostering a healthier population. “Everything related to research, nutrition, and prevention is essential,” he stated. “Research enlightens and inspires us, motivating people to think differently and seek solutions to pressing issues.”
Organized in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Institute of Nutrition of Central America and Panama (INCAP), the Ministry of Health’s Nutrition Program launched its first Nutrition Research Day (NutriExplora 2024). This event showcased 18 research studies on nutrition conducted by provincial health departments across the country.
Mariela Ortega Rabassa of the FAO’s Dominican Republic office highlighted the country’s progress in reducing undernourishment from 6.3% to 4.6% in recent years. “We are moving closer to our goal of eradicating hunger,” she said. However, she noted that the Dominican Republic faces the challenge of addressing obesity and overweight, which affect 31% of school-aged children and 70% of adults.
Patricia Grullón and Andelys de la Rosa, directors of the Ministry of Health’s Nutrition and Non-communicable Diseases programs, respectively, along with INCAP’s technical cooperation coordinator in the Dominican Republic, Ninette López Bravo, emphasized the importance of nutrition research and evaluations in improving the health and well-being of citizens.
Nutrition and health assessments were conducted by nutrition focal points in provincial health departments, targeting diverse populations, including secondary school students, Ministry of Health employees, elderly residents of nursing homes, university students, pregnant women, and individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds across the country.
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Hoy
El Caribe
Ministry of Public Health
21 October 2024