National Policy for the Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases.

This National Policy for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases 2015-2025, is an expression of the commitment of the Government of the Sultanate of Oman to promote healthy lifestyles and prevent diseases for the entire population. It is a nationwide sectoral document aiming at (i) achieving a better, longer and more productive quality life for the Omani society by reducing the burden of non-communicable diseases and their complications through partnership and cooperation efforts by the Ministry of Health, related sectors and partners; (ii) improving treatment management of NCDs. The main strategic areas tackled by the Policy are (i) governance, leadership, policy development and healthcare financing; (ii) creation of a supportive environment and active community; (iii) reorientation of health services; (iv) development of healthy human resources and individual skills; (v) international partnership and cooperation; (vi) development of a national system for follow-up, evaluation and surveillance of non-communicable diseases.
As for the food-related recommendations, the Policy suggests to (i) address behavioral risk factors, namely, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and alcohol abuse; (ii) increase the daily fruit/vegetable intake; (iii) increase awareness about important dietary nutrients, both hazards like fat, salt and sugar, and benefits like whole grains; (iv) strengthen actions promoting healthy, balanced diet in-line with the Global Diet and Physical Activity Strategy.