Over MVR 100 million spent by Aasandha for cancer and neurological diseases in two years

Manadhoo MP Ahmed Haroon has stated that over MVR 100 million has been spent by Aasandha on treatment for cancer and neurological diseases over the past two years.

MP Haroon has submitted a new bill to the Parliament on food quality protection – and in opening the preliminary debate on the bill this morning, MP Haroon had highlighted Aasandha’s expenditure on treatment for cancer and neurological diseases.

In this regard, it was detailed that in 2018 – a total of 1029 cancer patients were sent abroad for treatment through Aasandha. In 2019, the figure was increased to 1417 cancer patients.

In 2018, a total of 475 patients were sent abroad for treatment for neurological diseases. In 2019, the figure was increased to 744 patients.

With reference to these figures – MP Haroon noted that the state has to spend an immense amount of money on the treatment of serious illnesses – whereas, within the past two years only, MVR 100 million has been spent on treatment for patients with cancer and neurological diseases.

“We need to this about these diseases. We end up with diseases because of our lifestyle choices. One main cause of these diseases according to the doctors is related to the quality of food,” he had said.

The bill proposed by Haroon will see the formulation of 19 regulations in the upcoming three months on food quality protection – if passed. These regulations are in relation to quality assurances in the production of food, food safety, guidelines on how the produced food materials are delivered to consumers, and policies on selling food materials on the market. Actions that can be taken against those who fail to follow these guidelines are also stipulated in the bill.

Under Section 6 of the bill – local councils are tasked with enforcing its contents.