Shaping responsive health systems for people living with NCDs

Dr Tin Maung Htwe, Editor-in-Chief, Health Digest Journal, Myanmar

There are two major groups of diseases in the world: (i) Communicable or infectious diseases and (ii) Non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Communicable diseases are caused by pathogenic or disease-causing microorganisms (such as bacteria, viruses, etc.) that infect the human body and make it sick- for example malaria, tuberculosis, AIDS (Auto Immune Deficiency Syndrome). Some of them can spread from one infected human to another. On the other hand NCDs on the other hand are not caused by microbes and are not transmissible directly from one person to another.

Eliminate illicit trade in tobacco products

Dr Tin Maung Htwe, Editor-in-Chief, Health Digest Journal, Myanmar

It is well known that the World Health Organization (WHO) is taking the lead in controlling the use of tobacco and tobacco products as they are harmful to the health, economy and social well-being of the people of the world. The WHO FCTC (Framework Convention on Tobacco Control) has established guidelines, protocols and strategies for member states to adhere to. One of the many follow-up guidelines is to end the illicit trade in tobacco and tobacco products.

Uncovering asthma misconceptions

Dr Tin Maung Htwe, Editor-in-Chief, Health Digest Journal, Myanmar

Asthma is one of the major global health problems, with Low and Low-Middle SDI (Socio-Economic and Demographic Index) countries being the most affected. We know that people who suffer from sudden shortness of breath due to their asthma have to urgently use an inhaler or even go to a hospital in case of severity of the attack.With asthma is affecting more and more children and adults today, experts categorise it as a public health problem.