St. Kitts and Nevis is reaping significant benefits from its collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) in addressing the escalating issue of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Dr. Hazel Laws, the Chief Medical Officer (CMO), expressed her gratitude for PAHO’s support during the 62nd Pan American Health Organization’s Directing Council Meeting of Health Ministers in Washington, D.C. She underscored the importance of this partnership in enhancing the Federation’s healthcare sector. Dr. Laws, speaking at the meeting’s opening session on September 29, outlined recent health initiatives and strategies to tackle critical medical challenges. In an interview with SKNVibes News, she emphasized the need to deepen collaboration with PAHO, particularly in scaling up responses to NCDs, which she identified as the most significant health challenge. She highlighted the importance of prevention through addressing risk factors, early detection, and effective management of patients. The meeting also served as a platform for regional health ministers to exchange strategies. Guyana’s Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, stressed the importance of PAHO’s strategic plan in advancing healthcare across the Americas. He pointed out that NCDs, such as hypertension, heart disease, and cancer, are a major global health concern, contributing to approximately 43 million deaths annually, with 18 million being premature. Dr. Anthony shared that Guyana has implemented several programs, including PAHO’s HEARTS initiative, which focuses on cardiovascular disease prevention and management. Additionally, Guyana is working towards eliminating cervical cancer through HPV vaccinations for both boys and girls. The 62nd Pan American Health Organization’s Directing Council Meeting of Health Ministers is set to conclude on October 3.