INHPF Expresses Concerns over the Impact of “E-Cigarettes” on the Health of Children and Young People Worldwide, Advocating for Control Measures to Safeguard Public Health Over the past decade, e-cigarettes have been growing in popularity, with users worldwide increasing from 7 million in 2011 to 82 million in 2021. In particular, teenagers have shown greater interest and use of e-cigarettes. Studies worldwide have revealed that vaping can result in serious health issues. A major concern lies in the fact that young people starting with e-cigarettes are nearly four times more likely to smoke traditional cigarettes, compared to those who do not use e-cigarettes, due to the presence of nicotine as a stimulant. According to the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it was reported that in 2022, 2.55 million middle and high school students smoked e-cigarettes. Between 2020 and 2022, the proportion of teenagers aged 14-17 using e-cigarettes rose substantially from 2.1% to 11.8%. This figure was in line with the trend of young adults aged 18-24 whose smoking rates nearly doubled from 5.6% to 21.4%. The 21st Annual Meeting of the International Network of Health Promotion Foundations 2024 (21st INHPF Annual Meeting 2024) and Queensland Prevention Symposium, held from September 2-5, 2024, in Queensland, Australia, was led by the International...

ThaiHealth Proposes Strategies to Tackle Childhood Obesity in Thailand at INHPF Annual Meeting 2024, Expressing Concerns over Rising Obesity among Children Worldwide  At the 21st Annual Meeting of the International Network of Health Promotion Foundations 2024 (21st INHPF Annual Meeting 2024) and Queensland Prevention Symposium, held from September 2-5, 2024, in Queensland, Australia, the executives of the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) joined the discussion with member countries of the International Network of Health Promotion Foundations (INHPF) on addressing childhood obesity. One of the serious health issues causing global concern is obesity in many children worldwide. In fact, nearly one-fifth of children around the world are overweight or obese, including 39 million children under the age of five and 340 million children aged 5-19. Participating in the discussion were member organizations, including the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), the Singapore Health Promotion Board, the Tonga Health Promotion Foundation, and Australia’s Health and Wellbeing Queensland. Childhood obesity stems from unhealthy eating habits that affect health, society, and the economy. It has been exacerbated by a variety of challenges such as COVID-19, climate change, and economic recession, resulting in increased prices for fresh food and greater marketing of unhealthy processed foods. The leading contributors to childhood obesity stem from the surrounding environment. In particular, decreased outdoor activities and increased screen time among...

Recently, a delegation from ThaiHealth, led by Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, M.D., CEO of ThaiHealth, and Dr. Nuttapun Supaka, Director of Partnership and International Relations Section, attended the 21st Annual Meeting of the International Network of Health Promotion Foundations 2024 (21st INHPF Annual Meeting 2024) and Queensland Prevention Symposium, held from September 2-5, 2024, in Queensland, Australia. The event was co-hosted by Health and Wellbeing Queensland, one of the member countries of the International Network of Health Promotion Foundations (INHPF), and Queensland Health. The meeting featured the Meeting of the International Network of Health Promotion Foundations, or the INHPF Annual Meeting 2024, which is the annual conference of network members, including ThaiHealth, VicHealth, HealthWay, Health and Wellbeing Queensland, the Singapore Health Promotion Board (HPB), the Korea Health Promotion Institution (KHEPI), the Tonga Health Promotion Foundation (TongaHealth), and the Health Promotion Administration (HPA) of Taiwan. In addition, the international conference Queensland Prevention Symposium 2024 was held, which served as a platform for discussing health promotion issues in Queensland and other countries, such as e-cigarettes, physical activity, health promotion among children and adolescents, and social marketing. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, M.D., CEO of ThaiHealth, commented on attending the meeting, “Learning the ideas and practices of health promotion from other countries will strengthen ThaiHealth’s capacity to advance health promotion initiatives in Thailand. We will draw on this...

August is a special month in Thailand as it marks the celebration of Mother’s Day, a time to honor and appreciate the incredible contributions of mothers across the nation. This celebration provides an opportune moment to highlight the significant efforts of ThaiHealth and its partners in Protecting promoting and supporting breastfeeding, thereby ensuring that every child receives the best start in life. ThaiHealth, in collaboration with various partners, has implemented numerous initiatives to support breastfeeding. These initiatives are part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing public health and fostering healthier communities. The following outlines ThaiHealth’s key initiatives and the contributions of its partners: Community Engagement and Awareness Programs ThaiHealth has launched several community-based programs designed to raise awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding. These programs are conducted in partnership with the Ministry of Public Health, local municipalities, and community organizations. Key activities include: Workshops and Training: ThaiHealth collaborates with the Ministry of Public Health and local municipalities to conduct workshops for healthcare professionals, community leaders, and parents. Community organizations assist in organizing and promoting these workshops within local communities. Public Campaigns: Media partners, including television channels, radio stations, and online platforms, help disseminate public campaigns aimed at raising awareness about the benefits of breastfeeding. Supportive Environments for Breastfeeding Mothers Creating supportive environments for breastfeeding mothers is crucial for promoting...

Thai UHC Journey Workshop 2024 Health Promotion: A Transformative Path Towards Sustainable Health and Well-being 4-8 November, 2024 at Thai Health Center, Bangkok, Thailand   Background of the workshop Universal health coverage (UHC) ensures everyone has access to essential health services without financial burden, covering everything from prevention to palliative care. Achieving UHC requires strong, efficient, and equitable health systems, with each country tailoring its approach based on population needs and available resources. Health and well-being are also influenced by social, economic, political, environmental, and commercial factors. The 21st century faces interconnected global crises like pandemics, noncommunicable diseases, economic instability, and extreme weather, which exacerbate health inequities and hinder UHC progress. Health promotion is crucial for UHC, emphasizing equitable and sustainable development and addressing health determinants for substantial health gains. The Ottawa Charter (1986) outlines five key actions for effective health promotion: building healthy public policy, creating supportive environments, strengthening community action, developing personal skills, and re-orienting health services. The 4th Thai UHC Journey Workshop, themed “Health Promotion: A Transformative Path Towards Sustainable Health and Well-being,” will take place from November 4–8, 2024, in Bangkok, Thailand. Co-hosted by key health organizations in Thailand, the workshop aims to share experiences, build capacity for health promotion in low- and middle-income countries, and encourage practical applications based on participants’ contexts. Previous workshops 2021 Thai UHC...

In early July, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), in collaboration with the Smart Community Smart Network, held the forum “Fostering Synergy for Innovation towards Sustainable Community Health in 2024” under the theme “Local Communities Join Hands to Solve National Issues”. The event focused on empowering local communities to address issues from the community to the national level. It was held at IMPACT Forum, Muang Thong Thani, Nonthaburi Province, with 5,725 participants from 530 networks across Thailand. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, M.D., CEO of ThaiHealth, stated that the forum “Fostering Synergy for Innovation towards Sustainable Community Health” is now in its 13th year, which bears a testament to the unwavering power and potential of local communities, contributing to sustainable local communities, self-governed local communities, and livable local communities. The goals include 1. Synergizing the Smart Community Smart Network and the health promotion network through collaboration among local communities, private organizations, public interest organizations, government agencies, state enterprises, and other government entities; 2. Raising awareness of critical issues, leading to the prevention and resolution of problems within local communities and the country; 3. Sharing knowledge on community health practices towards ThaiHealth’s strategic goals; and 4. Expanding unique ideas and approaches for advancing health promotion through a place-based, integrated approach. Currently, ThaiHealth supports 3,618 networks of the Smart Community Smart Network nationwide to foster...

ThaiHealth joined forces with the StopDrink Network Office (SNO) and the StopDrink Network Nationwide to implement the “Persuade, Help, and Encourage” strategies for alcohol abstinence during the Buddhist Lent, complementing the “Healthy Sobriety” campaign to foster a healthy society free from alcohol and its health risks. Marking its 22nd  year, ThaiHealth, SDO, and its partners have been running the Buddhist Lent Alcohol Abstinence project since 2003. The 2022 survey carried out by the Centre for Alcohol Studies (CAS) demonstrated that 17.8% of participants completely abstained from alcohol throughout the Lent period, while 19% abstained at times and reduced their drinking. Overall, 36.8%, representing 9,383,490 individual, abstained and reduced their drinking, surpassing the 2021 survey where 30.3% abstained and reduced their alcohol consumption. Based on estimates, the total number of those changing their drinking behavior during this year’s Buddhist Lent reached 10,150,994, an increase of 770,000 individuals compared to 2023. This figure consists of 5,285,940 individuals who abstained from alcohol throughout the Lent period, 2,268,696 of those who abstained occasionally, and 2,596,358 of those who did not abstain but reduced their alcohol consumption. Approximately 3,738,246 individuals were estimated to have saved money by abstaining from alcohol during this campaign, with average saving of 1,506.97 baht per person over the 3-month period, contributing to total national savings of 4,227,770,171 baht. Evidently, the...

Dr.Pairoj Saonuam, Deputy CEO of ThaiHealth is one of the 20 global experts on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) within the WHO Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Noncommunicable Diseases (STAG NCD).    His insights and perspective will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in advancing strategies to combat NCDs, which will be used to formulate global policies and strategies for risk prevention and improve the health and well-being of communities worldwide.

World population day is a global event celebrated on 11th July which aims at creating awareness about the urgent population related issues and their influence on health and well-being. This day emphasizes the need for considering health determinants and sustainable practices in order to guarantee a healthier future for all. Thai Health Promotion Foundation: Advocacy for Population-Based Health Promotion Our vision at Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) is that all people living in Thailand have the ability and opportunity to live in a society and environment that promotes good health. Established in 2001, ThaiHealth has been leading the way in health promotion through innovative approaches aimed at improving health outcomes and fostering a healthier society. Our Mission and Principles With the small annual budget that accounts only 1.8% of national health expense, ThaiHealth is guided by the principle of “population-based health promotion,” to focus on two main objectives: Encouraging individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles. Building an environment that supports and enhances well-being. Encouraging Healthier Lifestyles ThaiHealth employs a multi-faceted approach to encourage healthier lifestyles among the population. Our initiatives are aimed at reducing the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and promoting mental and physical health through various programs and campaigns. For instance, our efforts in tobacco and alcohol control have significantly reduced smoking rates and alcohol consumption in Thailand​​ ....

The top three-star rating was given to building health and environment-friendly real estate, reducing risk of communicable and non-communicable diseases, illnesses and deaths among global population, while opening areas for creative health learning process 13 June 2024 – Dr. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, Chief Executive Officer of Thai Health Promotion Foundation, said Fitwel, the world’s leading certification system committed to building health for all, announced ThaiHealth as one of the winners of the 2024 Best in Building Health Awards. ThaiHealth was rated the highest in the Single-Tenant Building category by the Center for Active Design (CfAD) regarded as the licensed operator of Fitwel. This prestigious annual recognition honors the most innovative real estate companies and individuals setting the standard for health and wellbeing in the built environment across the globe, enhancing quality of life and driving value through design and operational excellence. The award also relates to ThaiHealth’s vision “All people living in Thailand have capability and live in society and environment conducive to good health.”​ “This award has reflected the importance of our three priorities of “empower, innovate and communicate” health promotion in every dimension, promote and develop knowledge extension in every aspect for example green building, energy-saving building, and universal design for the elderly and people of all ages. Fitwel was originally created by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control...

June is a month when the world turns their attention to Pride Month, the month of LGBTQ+ pride.. Thailand is no exception, showing a growing interest, being active in this regard, and embracing gender diversity. As a health promotion organization, ThaiHealth has joined forces with its networks to drive and advocate for reducing inequality among vulnerable groups and promoting equal health rights for the LGBTQ+ community. The year 2024 holds special significance for the LGBTQ+ community since it marks the 55th anniversary of Stonewall Riots, which took place on June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. These riots were sparked by police discrimination, escalating into resistance and violence. This incident ignited the global movement for LGBTQ+ rights and equality. In Thailand, the LGBTQ+ community has been actively advocating for the equal marriage bill this year. On June 18, 2024, the bill was finally passed by the Senate, following 12 years of sustained effort. Currently, 38 countries worldwide have legalized same-sex marriage, with Thailand being the first in ASEAN and the third in Asia to enact such legislation, following Taiwan and Nepal. Additionally, various organizations in Thailand, government agencies, private sectors, and civil societies, have hosted Pride Month celebrations nationwide. Thailand’s celebrations of Pride Month began in 2006 with the Bangkok Pride Parade and have been held...

The Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth), led by Dr.Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, CEO of ThaiHealth, along with Dr. Pairoj Saonuam , Deputy CEO, attended the 77th World Health Assembly (WHA77) and related activities from May 26 to June 1, 2024, in Geneva, Switzerland along with representatives from 194 member states.  ThaiHealth contributed as a part of Thailand team in WHA77 by sharing experiences in promoting sodium reduction strategies, sharing key lessons on alcohol control policies, discussing health promotion approaches, and joining efforts with other member states to advance health initiatives. This world health assembly focused on key global issues amidst growing challenges. Dr. Pongthep shared that the key topics discussed with the member states at WHA77 included: Achieving the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) by 2030, with a focus on implementation and social participation, enhancing primary healthcare systems, and ensuring access to comprehensive health services to achieve health equity; Preventing Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), with the member states discussing new strategies to prevent and control NCDs; Strengthening health systems to prepare for and respond to future pandemics and addressing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) issues; Expanding access to mental health services, especially for children and adolescents, with the assembly endorsing a global action plan to promote mental health and prevent suicide; and Addressing climate change affecting public health, with the assembly discussing strategies to mitigate the...

Management and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs)  is receiving a significant attention, because they are the leading causes of mortality worldwide.  and in Thailand. In fact, eight out of the ten burden of diseases in Thailand are linked to risk factors for NCDs, such as smoking, high blood sugar levels, high body mass index, high blood pressure, and alcohol consumption. These risk factors are incorporated into ThaiHealth’s health promotion plans under the concept of “prevention is better than cure,” aiming to reduce the number of people getting sick as well as improving public well-being. ThaiHealth: A Leading Health Promotion Organization Achieving WHO Best Buy Standards… ThaiHealth is a government agency established under the Health Promotion Foundation Act B.E. 2544 (2001). Its objectives encompass promoting health in accordance with national health policies, enhancing the capacity of communities and organization across various sectors, supporting health promotion research and knowledge, and raising public awareness about the risks factors of NCDs, such as alcohol and tobacco consumption. ThaiHealth has supported academic efforts, social mobilization and policy advocacy to manage the risk factors of NCDs. This has contributed to a fall in the adult smoking rate from 25.5% in 2001 to 17.4% in 2021 and the adult alcohol consumption rate from 32.7% in 2004 to 28.0% in 2021. The rate of adequate physical activity rose...

Between 13 – 14 June, 2024 Dr.Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, ThaiHealth CEO, together with Dr. Jadej Thammatacharee, Secretary-General of the National Health Security Office (NHSO) represented Thailand in the ASEAN Priority Setting Exercise in Singapore. This key meeting was convened by the Saw Swee Hock School of Public Health (SSHSPH), National University of Singapore (NUS), aiming for the region’s health leaders to share valuable insights and expertise to address health challenges prevalent in the region as well as to explore collaborative opportunities across different sectors and among ASEAN countries on health.

On June 12, 2024 between 13.30-17.00 Dr. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, ThaiHealth CEO and Mr.Rungsun Munkong, International Relations Expert along with experts from HITAP visited the Singapore Health Promotion Board (HPB) to exchange knowledge about the organizations policy framework and HPB’s key innovative interventions, such as Healthy365 the healthy lifestyle integrated digital platform, Nutri-Grade Labeling for sugary drinks, Healthier Choices logo and etc. The delegation received a warm welcome from HPB Chief Executive, Mr. Tay Choon Hong and other key executives and staff.

Mr. Rungsun Munkong, International Relations Expert, ThaiHealth, represented Thailand to speak at the WHA77 Side Event “Charting Alcohol Policy Progress Around the World: For the Full Implementation of the WHO Global Alcohol Action Plan,” organized by Movendi International on May 31, 2024,12:30-13:45hr, at the InterContinental Hotel, Geneva, Switzerland. The event explored lessons learned and key challenges in developing and implementing alcohol control policies from several countries around the word towards full implementation of the WHO Global Alcohol Action Plan 2022-2030. In addition to Thailand, the event featured international leaders and experts from Movendi International, WHO, Ghana, Nepal, Latvia, Norway, Zambia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Iceland.

On 29 May 2024, 16.15-17.00 at WHO Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland, Dr.Pairoj Saonuam, Deputy CEO of ThaiHealth and Mr.Rungsun Munkong, International Relation Expert, ThaiHealth together with Dr.Preeda Tae-arak, Deputy Secretary-General, National Health Commission Office (NHCO) met with WHO Department of Health Promotion, led by Dr.Rudiger Krech, Director and his team. ThaiHealth updated on its movement to build awareness and common understanding of health and well-being concept in alignment with WHO Global Framework on well-being and health promotion. The meeting also focused on the future collaboration between ThaiHealth and WHO to advance health promotion in Thailand and other developing countries.

Dr.Pairoj Saonuam, Deputy CEO ThaiHealth, represented Thailand in speaking at a side event convened by Resolve to Save Lives and NCD Alliance, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, during the 77th World Health Assembly: “Salt reduction: The missing ingredient for effective food policy” on 28 May 2024 from 8:00-9:30 AM at the InterContinental in Geneva, Switzerland. At this event, we hear insights from esteemed international experts and champion countries including Thailand, Singapore and Camerron that have taken action to reduce excess sodium from their food supplies. Dr.Pairoj shared Thailand’s experience with food policies and sodium reduction.

                    “Cigarettes” cause a health crisis with devastating effects on both smokers and those around them. The global death toll indicates that over 8 million people die due to smoking each year, and approximately 65,000 children worldwide lose their lives before the age of 5 as a result of exposure to “secondhand smoke”. In Thailand, more than 80,000 lives each year are claimed by cigarettes and secondhand smoke. Of particular concern is the targeting of teenagers through the promotion of “vaping”, leaving children and adolescents vulnerable. According to the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) among Thai youth in the year 2022, the prevalence of e-cigarettes among children and adolescents sharply increased from 3.3% in 2015 to 17.6% in 2022, marking a 5.3-fold increase. This finding aligns with the 2024 survey on e-cigarette usage among 152 primary school students in the central region. The survey revealed that up to 15% of fourth and fifth graders were encouraged to try e-cigarettes by family members. Additionally, 73% of students who had used e-cigarettes reported being persuaded by family, friends, and community members. “E-cigarettes” are easily accessible to children and adolescents as a result of “deceptions” stemming from the marketing strategies of the tobacco industry, particularly online advertisements, directly targeting and manipulating children and adolescents. This...

“This year is the 5th edition of this free physical activity event for all to celebrate the importance of healthy lifestyles and to kickstart the Seventy-seventh World Health Assembly. It offers 2 route distances, 3km and 4.2km, around Geneva. The event is expected to draw more than 5,000 participants consisting of WHO, UN family, Member States, athletes, local sports clubs health partners and the Geneva community. Thailand, as the Chair of the Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative this year, is committed to advocate health promotion as a transformative path towards sustainable well-being for all. We contribute to this event by having more than 50 people participating in the walk and run as well as displaying a booth exhibition led by ThaiHealth, showcasing Thailand’s key movements in promoting healthy lifestyles for all, including healthy active meeting, building environments for health, . As the Chair of the Foreign Policy and Global Health Initiative this year, Thailand is committed to working with Member States, WHO and all stakeholders using health promotion as a transformative path towards sustainable well-being for all, as well as notable media campaigns on healthy diet and physical activities.”  

Dr. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, The CEO of Thai Health Promotion Foundation joined the preparatory meeting for the Prince Mahidol Award International Conference 2025 (PMAC 2025) on May 22-24, 2024, in Montreux, Switzerland. The objective is to gather opinions and plan the event, with next year’s theme focusing on Harnessing Technologies in an Age of AI to Build a Healthier World. Participants of the meeting are representatives from leading organizations both from Thailand and global such as WHO, World Bank, JICA, Harvard University, Health Systems Research Institute (HSRI) Thailand , and National Health Security Office (NHSO) Thailand. Dr Pongthep aims to drive the use of digital health and AI in promoting health with local and international networks. Additionally, they have met with high-level executives such as the WHO Deputy Director-General to discuss future collaborations on health promotion between ThaiHealth and WH

           ThaiHealth moves forward at full force to implement the 10-year health promotion plan for Thai people’s well-being           The Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) has advanced the 10-year health promotion plan (2022-2031) to address future health challenges, including the impacts of COVID-19, digital disruption, and entering an aging society. It places emphasis on 8 proactive strategies to promote and improve the health of Thai people.            The entire world must face various health challenges in the future, including the impacts of COVID-19, digital disruption, and entering an aging society. These challenges may evolve into changes in population structure, digital technology advancements, and adaptation to climate change. All of these have posed challenges for the healthcare sector in every country, necessitating preparedness and planning to promote and enhance population health and well-being in the future.            Thailand, facing the same problem as the rest of the world, needs to prepare and equip Thai people to be aware of health issues. To achieve that, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation (ThaiHealth) has established a 10-year direction and goal (2022-2031) to move forward the implementation of the health promotion plan in all sectors in order to prepare for potential challenges, including the impacts of COVID-19, digital disruption,...

Songkran Festival, or the Thai New Year, is an important period in Thai tradition where people travel back home to visit their families or go on vacations. This contributes to heavy traffic congestion on the roads, which can potentially result in accidents if drivers are careless. During this long holiday, it is crucial to emphasize driving practices, reduction of risk behaviors for road accidents, such as speeding or not using safety equipment, and enhancement of the environment to ensure road safety for drivers and pedestrians. In addition, what needs to be stressed is drunk driving. It is undeniable that alcoholic beverages are a major health risk factor, being one of the leading causes of death among the Thai population and worldwide, especially during the Songkran festival. According to the information regarding injuries and fatalities during the Songkran festival in 2022 reported by the Ministry of Public Health, there were a total of 4,340 cases of drunk driving, with 502 of them aged under 20 years. The majority of accidents, accounting for 53 percent, involved drunk driving and losing control, and the accidents were predominant on secondary roads rather than main roads. Additionally, most of the vehicles involved in road accidents were motorcycles.  Essentially, this can result in accidents and potential losses. The Mission “Prevention before Cure” Promotes Public Health: Don’t...

As the World Changes Every Minute..                     In the era of digital disruption where technology and social media are increasingly reshaping people’s lifestyles and work practices in the old world almost entirely, everything has become increasingly complex and challenges constantly arise. We are well aware that in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic crisis, everything has changed drastically. Work lifestyles in this new era have completely transformed, and simultaneously complex health issues and limitations in various facets of life have emerged. These pose challenges to work in the present era. The key to working in every organization striving to address complex issues to achieve favorable outcomes resonating with the current global context and leading to the intended goals lies in “leaders”. This poses a question about what vision and skills the leaders of the BANI World era, filled with various challenges, should possess in order to lead the organizations towards success. Let’s explore them through the perspective of the Manager of the Health Promotion Support Fund (ThaiHealth) and the Director of the Partnership and International Relations Section (PIRS). Working with Happiness: The Key to Being a Leader in the New Era…                      Dr. Pongthep Wongwatcharapaiboon, the Manager of the Health Promotion Support...

Global citizens are now facing a mental health crisis, with a quarter of the global population – over 450 million people – experiencing mental health issues with tremendous impacts on their daily lives Information from the Department of Mental Health, Ministry of Public Health suggests that mental health and psychiatric issues are common health issues. It is estimated that a quarter of the world’s population, specifically approximately 450 million individuals, experience psychiatric issues at a certain point in their lives. These mental health issues have huge impacts on their abilities to function and co-exist in society, as well as affect their quality of live. In Thailand, it has been found that adolescents, working-age adults, and the elderly are highly prone to mental health issues. However, in the present day, there exist a variety of health risk factors which can impact individuals’ health behavior and environment such as the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic and digital disruption affecting their ways of life and attitudes. Inevitable challenges resulting from these factors are stress, anxiety, and depression. ThaiHealth and its efforts to promote mental health among Thai people… Mental health refers to a state of mental well-being in which individuals can manage or control their emotions to prevent frustration or intrapsychic conflicts and can adapt to society and the environment with happiness. Alternatively, it entails...

“Citizens with good health are regarded as invaluable resources to the nation. Having strong physical well-being and mental health are crucial factors in leading a life of happiness and fulfillment.” The Beginning of AUN-HPN: ASEAN University Network – Health Promotion Network… The ASEAN University Network – Health Promotion Network, abbreviated as AUN-HPN, was established in 1995 with the aim of advancing the principles of the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion and resolutions from the 4th ASEAN summit in 1992 that urged member states to promote “human resource development so as to further strengthen the existing network of leading universities and institutions of higher learning in the region.” The AUN-HPN serves as a regional network of academic collaboration among experts in health promotion in educational institutions. It intends to strengthen the role of universities in cultivating healthy lifestyles and conducive environments towards becoming Healthy University through the cooperation of 30 higher education institutions in 10 ASEAN member countries. This is pursued with the aim of enhancing the quality of life for people in the Southeast Asian region through collaborative efforts in health promotion among higher education institutions. Mahidol University has been designated by the ASEAN University Network (AUN) to serve as the Secretariat of the AUN-HPN network, with ThaiHealth providing support for activities and events in alignment with its goals and...

“In Thailand, there is a law requiring the tobacco and alcohol industry to pay additional 2% excise to the Healthpromotion fund or Thaihealth who is using and managing this fund to empower communities, to strengthen relevantsystems and to enhance knowledge generation. Currently ThaiHealth supports more than 20,000 projects and innovations across the country to counteract the force from all commercial determinants of health not only tobacco and alcohol. There have been a lot of movements leading toboth policy change and sustainable development at the local level.” Bung-orn Ritthipakdee Prince Mahidol Award Conference 2024 Plenary 2 Geopolitical Puppeteers: Identifying the Roles of Hidden Actors Shaping the Commercial Determinants of Global Health #Thaihealth #IRHighlight #IR #HealthPromotion

United Nations’ Resident Coordinator inThailand, Ms Gita Saphawal, has recently been in an official visit to Thai Health Promotion Foundation for a discussion with the organisation’s executives.. May 29, 2020 – A delegation of United Nationsin Thailand led by Ms Gita Saphawal has paid an official visit to ThaiHealth office. On hand to welcome the delegation were Dr Khamnuan Ungchusak, Board Committee Member; Dr Supreda Adulyanon, CEO; Dr Pairoj Saonuam, Assistant CEO; and Dr Nuttapun Supaka, Director of Partnership and International Affairs Section. The talks involved an exchange of information on the updates of coronavirus direction development, ThaiHealth’s roles in dealing with the pandemic in the current phase and the next phase, and ThaiHealth’s support towards social enterprises in an effort to alleviate economic and social problems caused by the coronavirus crisis. The two organisations also sought to tighten bilateral collaboration in order for Thailand to achieve Sustainable Development Goals in various agenda. Having learnt about ThaiHealth’s roles and its success in promoting health in Thailand, the United Nations also voiced an affirmation on its pursuit to propagate ThaiHealth’s best practices and successful models in developing countries across the globe in the form of South-South Cooperation.

    Nov 21-22, 2019 – ThaiHealth executives led by Dr Supreeda Adulyanont, ThaiHealth Manager; Dr Phairot Saonuam, Director of the Office of Healthy Lifestyle Promotion; and Dr Natthaphan Suphaka, Director of the International Affairs Division, participated in the 51th APACPH Conference on “SDGs in Reality” held at Amari Watergate Hotel, Bangkok.   The 51st APACPH was co-hosted by Public Health Faculty of Mahidol University, and ThaiHealth, and is supported by several international organisations, with more than 600 participants from 20 countries in the Asia-Pacific region.   ThaiHealth Manager attended the opening and lecture on the Plenary Forum titled “SDGs and Public Health: At Present” on health promotion as it is a linkage and a support factor of well-beingness and sustainable development agenda. He said the health promotion projects have been proven effective in resolving factors that determine social, economic, and environmental health.   Dr Patama Thianwisitsakun, Deputy Secretary-General of the National Economic and Social Development Board, said that Thailand still has a significant gap in achieving SDGs in health dimensions, such as the challenge of quality, equality in the health service system, the problem of poverty in the elderly population that is increasing compared to other age ranges, including the problem of elderly with chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs).     Dr. Daniel Curtess, representative from the World Health Organisation’s...

    Oct 23-24, 2019 – Prince Mahidol Award Foundation, in collaboration with Chatham House, will organise the first Prince Mahidol Award Conference 2021 (PMAC 2021) Preparatory Meeting in London, United Kingdom, with an objective of discussing with the organising committee about the details of each sub-meeting, and finding a consistent agreement to reduce the risk of problems – all to find a conclusion on academic issues, time allocation, and key themes of the PMAC 2021 meeting to report directly to ThaiHealth executives.   Participating in the preparatory meeting were Dr Supreeda Adulyanont, ThaiHealth Manager, and Ms Milin Sakornsindhu, Senior International Affair Executive. Apart from discussing the preparation phase of the international meeting, they also presented before the gathering the model, mechanism, and methodology of health promotion in Thailand, ThaiHealth-style.   The ThaiHealth’s fashion of health promotion in Thailand is regarded as an internationally acclaimed model for health promotion. The Thai speakers also conveyed success stories of the ThaiHealth coalition in Thailand’s health promotion network, especially in the role of being a model for health promotion organisations all over the world that was set up in liaison with National Health Security Office, with holistic health care system, prevention, and treatment.   As a result, the proceeds of the meeting are:   ThaiHealth has been appointed co-leader for the organising of...

    The International Health Policy Development Agency (IHPP) and International Affairs Division, Office for the Development of Relations and International Relations of ThaiHealth, joined hands with several agencies within the framework of the World Health Strategy Partnership of Thailand, to organise a study visit for the executives and academics from the Kingdom of Cambodia’s National Social Protection Council and the National Institute of Public Health.   A total of 11 participants from Cambodia attended the field lecture on “Promoting Evidence-Based Policymaking for Universal Health Promotion” during November 20-22, 2019, at ThaiHealth headquarters, Bangkok Thailand.   The organiser, led by Mr Rangsan Munkong, International Relations Specialist of ThaiHealth, was among the speakers to give lectures and lead the information-sharing session with the visiting delegation on “Advocating Society: ThaiHealth”. The lecture commenced by a presentation of ThaiHealth’s financial model for health promotion for earmarked sin tax model. He also explained the concept and shared past work experience of promoting healthy lifestyle in Thailand, especially in stimulating and driving society through campaigns leading to changes in social policies and structures to facilitate sustainable well-being, such as tobacco, alcohol consumption control, sugar tax, and so on.   As a result, the visiting delegation was very interested in exchange their knowledge with ThaiHealth, and would like to apply the ideas of earmarked sin tax...

  ThaiHealth’s International Affairs Office has been contacted by the Non-Communicable Disease Division, Department of Disease Control, Public Health Ministry, in brining in a study visit groups from the Republic of Maldives and the Kingdom of Bhutan.   A total of 19-strong delegation participated in the study tour at ThaiHealth on November 13, 2019 from 0900-1500 hrs. The study visit at ThaiHealth is a part of the workshop for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and clinical services at the primary level (The Project of Non-Communicable Diseases Management in Primary Health Care ). With the project receiving financial support from the World Health Organisation with the objective of developing and strengthening the potential, exchanging knowledge and experience in the suppression and prevention of non-communicable diseases in Thailand. Apart from the objectives envisaged, there were additional key issues that needed to be learnt from the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, which are:   Organisation for health promotion, and health promotion effort to eradicate and prevent non-communicable diseases.   Tobacco control plan, alcohol control plan, healthy diet, and promotion of physical activities.   Fund management for health promotion.     In the commencement of the study visit, Mr Rangsan Munkong, an international relations expert, welcomed the visiting delegation, introduced ThaiHealth in brief, exchanged and listened to the objectives and expectations of the study visit participants, along...

  Nov 19, 2019 – ThaiHealth’s International Affairs Division, Office of International Affairs and Educational Communication Development welcomed a South Korean delegation who conducted a study visit at ThaiHealth with the objective of studying financial methodology for healthy lifestyle promotion, especially in the local levels and seamless collaboration between the government and the communities.   The study tour began with Mr Rangsan Munkong, international relations specialist, who delivered a welcome speech to the visiting delegation and listened to the objectives and expectations of the study participants. He also delivered a presentation on the overview of ThaiHealth’s working organisation, strategy, work plan, and the strategy of mountain-moving triangle to drive important works. The two counterparts exchanged ideas and discussed health promotion programmes of ThaiHealth that are beneficial to society, communities and the general population, including the development of a healthy city in Thailand and South Korea Which is the issue in which the study participants expressed interest.   Dr SHON Changwoo and Ms KIM Jungah, in return, conducted a presentation about the promotion of healthy lifestyle in South Korean major cities, notably in metropolitan Seoul, saying that the promotion effort was still inadequate. The state should promote more physical activities such as walking, which may be done by increasing pedestrian streets or pathways leading to public transport stations. In addition, there...

    Oct 8, 2019 – ThaiHealth, led by Dr Phairot Saonuam, Director of the Healthy Lifestyle Promotion Office; Dr Kachirat Prak-Eko, Director of Health System Development Support Office; Mr Rangsan Munkong, International Relations Specialist; and a team of specialists, welcomed Dr Christopher Exeter, Advisor to the National Health Service of the United Kingdom (NHS-UK); Ms Vitoria O’Callaghan and Ms Ravipha Chuangweluwan, Commercial Advisors to the Prosperity Fund at British Embassy in Bangkok.   The British delegation visited and discussed with ThaiHealth on the cooperation of healthy lifestyle promotion especially in the areas of prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCD) under the Better Health Program, which is a part of the UK Government’s Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) policy, where Thailand is one of the 8 sponsored target countries.   The fruitful results of the discussion were:   1) an understanding between the two organisations in terms of objectives, missions, strategies of work (by discussing in the strategic framework of the mountain-moving triangle) as well as the scope and progress of the Better Health Program cooperation; 2) the NHS-UK created a linkage between ThaiHealth and responsible persons at the Better Health Program, which can support ThaiHealth in many aspects. The focal points are namely Dr Phairot Saonuam, MD, Director of the Office of Healthy Lifestyle Promotion who supervises the issues...

  Oct 11, 2019 – ThaiHealth’s International Affairs Department organised a training session on the topic of “Do’s and Don’ts for future organising of international conferences between 1330 to 1530 hrs at room 414, ThaiHealth Bangkok Headquarters. The training was honoured by academics from the proactive and supportive offices of ThaiHealth, with staff counting to 21 participants. The training touched 4 important issues as follow:   rn To create understanding among the staff in the office of the agency about the guidelines and the process of organising international conferences, including additional recommendations about what should and should not be done in order to be able to fulfil relevant work. rn To enable the organising staff to understand the overall ideas of international conference so that they are able to professionally administer both academic and managerial operations together with a system that is transparent and auditable. rn To improve potential, skills, and the ability of organising committee in order to organise meetings of various levels, including sub-meetings, mid-level and conferences of international stages. rn To enable organising staff to be aware of current situations and trends in the world that are constantly changing so that the actualities can be applied by the organising committee to support the work of the organisation. rn   The activity began with a welcome speech, and...

  Sep 25, 2019 – ThaiHealth’s 5th Division and International Relations Department welcomed a delegation from Japan Sport Council in a study visit to ThaiHealth, with an objective to better understand about the work of promoting physical activities in the local level.   The Japan Sport Council, who first conducted study visit to ThaiHealth in 2016, visited ThaiHealth again this time to improve the two counterpart’s cooperation on the promotion of physical exercises. ThaiHealth, in this round, has proposed an improved definition and complete framework of physical activity promotion, which concerns boarder framework and involves more people.   In this visit, ThaiHealth also shared its success stories in its effort of promoting physical activities and the bigger framework of healthy lifestyle promotion. It has been confirmed that Japan would put stronger emphasis on physical activities in local level after 2020 Olympics.   In this regard, Dr. Phairot Saonuam, Director of the 5th Division of ThaiHealth, welcomed the visiting delegation and delivered a speech on the work to promote physical activities among its network partners. The Japanese delegation was very pleased and expressed interest in adopting the idea and upgrade it into policy in Japan accordingly.  

  Oct 10, 2019 – ThaiHealth delegation led by Dr Supreeda Adulyanont, ThaiHealth Manager; Dr Phairot Saonuam, Director of the Office of Healthy Lifestyle; and Mr Rangsan Munkong, International Relations Specialist of the Office of International Relations, participated in the 2nd round of United Nations Thematic Working Group on Non-Communicable Diseases at United Nations Office in Bangkok, Thailand.   NCDs or non-communicable diseases are the number one health problem in Thailand and the world. Recently, it has been raised as an important agenda in the global economic and social development. The United Nations General Assembly convened on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases for as many as three rounds, constituting global targets and being a part of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). In addition, the assembly also appointed a special an interagency task force on NCDs or UNIATF to monitor and support the implementation of works to prevent and control the spread of NCDs. For Thailand, the follow-up visit on 28-30 August 2018 issued a report and recommendation to the Royal Thai Government.   To support the implementation of the said recommendations, the United Nations and the Royal Thai Government have jointly appointed a United Nations Thematic Working Group on Non-Communicable Diseases – consisting of UN executives in Thailand. representatives from the ministries and relevant government agencies (including ThaiHealth)...

  The International Health Policy Development (IHPP) and International Affairs Division of the Office of the Development of Relations and International Relations on October 8th, 2019, organised a 10-strong visiting delegation comprising the executive committee and senior officials from the parliament, Ministry of Public Health, Customs Department, Ministry of Tourism, Trade and Industry, from the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste.     ThaiHealth as the host organised in honour of the visiting delegation an informative session on financial and fiscal model for health promotion of ThaiHealth and its partners; an information-sharing session of work experience the promotion of health in Thailand, with regard on efforts of constituting alcohol consumption policies, including working mechanisms and models of health promotion in Timor-Leste.   Timor-Leste Ministry of Public Health is in the process of pushing itself to constitute alcohol control measures in the country. This new ASEAN observing country is therefore interested in learning from Thailand’s success stories and problems envisaged in the past on pushing for alcohol consumption control policies and prevention of road accidents whose main cause if the alcoholic beverages, cultures of working with government agencies, community participations in solving emerging problems, and so on.     The study tour commenced with international relations expert, Mr Rangsan Munkong, who delivered a welcome speech to the visiting delegation. Then, the visiting counterpart...

ThaiHealth was solicited by the International Health Policy Program (IHPP) to honour the 40-strong Indian delegation from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, to speak about “Thai Health Promotion Foundation” on September 13, 2019, at Sanjai Meeting Room, Ministry of Public Health of Thailand.     The study visit has enabled the visiting delegation to learn and exchange ideas with the Thai counterpart on experience in health systems with specialists from various health-related agencies in Thailand. Topics covered were various – the Thai universal health coverage system, the utilisation of sin tax to promote healthy lifestyle in the country (ThaiHealth Act), fiscal management, collective working culture among Thailand’s health agencies – notably the employment of mountain-moving triangle strategy. The participants were found to be interested in what ThaiHealth has been doing and engaged in posing questions about ThaiHealth’s several projects, including its alcohol abuse prevention work, illegal smuggling of cigarettes, civil work such as clean water in communities which is still a problematic health issue in India. The Indian delegation was very satisfied with the experience about Thai health system from the seminar, saying they would apply some of the knowledge acquired to upgrade health policies and operations in their areas.    

  The National Health Security Office (NHSO), Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Thailand International Cooperation Agency (TICA), the International Health Policy Program (IHPP), Health Intervention and Technology Assessment Program (HITAP), and the Ministry of Public Health of Thailand, jointly organised an international workshop on Universal Health Coverage (UHC).   The Universal Health Coverage workshop, held during August 19-30, 2019, was participated by 45 participants who gathered to learn, discuss, and engaged in activities on Thailand’s healthcare system, Thailand’s universal healthcare scheme, health promotion taxation, and network building. The organiser (NHSO) gracefully invited Ms Milin Sakornsin, ThaiHealth Senior International Affairs Executive; and Mr Theera Vajarapranee, Manager of StopDrink Network, as special guest speakers during part of the workshop on August 29, 2019. At the workshop, ThaiHealth was shown on stage as an organisation whose task is to push forward several missions in many aspects, and its work with its partners on the issue of alcohol abuse. As a result, the gathering voiced interest in what ThaiHealth is pursuing and promised that it would support the special taxation policy to help strengthening the Universal Health Coverage system in the future.  

  ThaiHealth’s partner the Southeast Asia Tobacco Control Alliance (SEATCA) through Ms Bang-orn Ritthiphakdi and Dr Ulysses Dorotheo, Director; and ThaiHealth International Affairs Office, welcomed a 8-strong delegation of executives and working groups from Ministry of Public Health, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Interior and Local Administration, from the Republic of the Philippines. The objective of the visit was to exchange ideas about fiscal culture in its health promotion projects, learning mechanisms, and working culture of both counterparts.     Philippine Ministry of Public Health has its own version of strong health promotion policies which is in line with the Universal Health Care Act recently enforced in the country in February 2019. This act urges health-related agencies in the government to act as Health Promotion Bureau with multi-sectoral working culture. Its budget shall come from 1% from the total Public Health Ministry’s budget. Therefore, the SEATCA and Philippine Health Justice decided invite representatives from other agencies in the Philippines to join this study tour to ThaiHealth Centre in Thailand whose model is well received by the international community. The Philippine counterparts had the opportunity to learn about ThaiHealth model, along with ThaiHealth fiscal policy for health promotion for them to adjust for their legal convenience in the Philippines.    

  September 3-5, 2019 – The office of Partnership and International Affairs welcomed 6-strong delegations from the Singapore Health Promotion Board (SHPB) in a study visit organised as part of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) concluded between ThaiHealth and Singapore Health Promotion Board in 2019, with the objectives to exchange knowledge and best practices of the two organisation’s past missions in order to strengthen partnership and cooperation in pushing policies to eradicate NCD risks in both Thailand and Singapore. During the study visit, the two counterparts engaged in two main activities:                  Study visit by SHPB to ThaiHealth in Thailand under topic of mobilising social power through social marketing, public health community volunteers, and knowledge exchange. (September 3-5, 2019)   Study visit by ThaiHealth to SHPB in Singapore under topic of promoting healthy lifestyle in communities, containing the risks of NCDs through information technology and knowledge exchange. (to be organised in March 2020, date to be announced)       On September 3, 2019, ThaiHealth’s international affairs team led by Mr Rangsan Mankhong and Ms Thanyaphat Chumkamolthanat led the Singaporean delegation to a study visit of public health volunteer system under administration of the Bangkok Metropolican Administration and the National Health Security Office at 67th Public Health Service Centre in Thaweewatthana district. The...

               August 19-22, 2019 – Acting Director of Partnership and International Affairs office of ThaiHealth, Dr Nathaphan Suphaka, participated in the 2nd International Health Promotion Conference: Moving towards Healthy Universities in Asia in the Philippine capital of Manila.     The international conference was a part of the Memorandum of Understanding between ThaiHealth and AUN-HPN and was jointly held by AUN-HPN members – International Health Promotion University and the University of Philippines. It was organised under a mission to urge universities and health promotion agencies in Southeast Asia to exchange information, strengthen the health promotion network, and discuss the role of universities in promoting good health in their respected communities. The conference also saw a demonstration of health promotion researches from participants. Around 348 participants from 12 countries gathered together in this international conference to discuss the following issues:   rn Health promotion in ASEAN universities. rn Teaching and learning of health promotion subjects. rn Health promotion – from researches to policies. rn Health promotion support projects in universities. rn   In addition, a total of 48 students’ poster presentations, 57 research oral presentations, and 10 topics in plenary session were shown at the international conference.                  Dr Nathaphan Suphaka was also honoured as a guest speaker...

    ThaiHealth representatives on July 31 – August 2, 2019 participated as speakers along with experts from the International Health Policy Program (IHPP) at the Global Health Diplomacy Workshop in the Bhutanese capital of Thimphu. The ThaiHealth presentation included its introduction to the organisation’s work, mountain-moving triangular strategy in order to create progress in tough projects, its missions and roles in health promotion in many aspects. They have also exchanged knowledge among the international delegates about their experiences in attending in the 72th World Health Assembly (WHA72).                  The Workshop on Global Health Diplomacy and Health Diplomacy for Governing Bodies of WHO was jointly organised by the Ministry of Public Health, the Royal Kingdom of Bhutan, and the World Health Organisation, with approximately 40 participants who in their countries sit as policymakers and movers and shakers in the public health circle – ministries, public health executives, hospital representatives, university representatives, and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. With a main objective of showing the big picture of Global Health and its landscape to the Bhutanese counterparts, roles of persons and agencies from government and people sectors, the working culture of the WHO, conducting of health promotion work through World Health Assembly, pushing of health promotion policies on both national and international...

              ThaiHealth (by the Social Risk Factors Control Support Bureau and International Affairs Office) joined hands with the World Health Organization (WHO), Ministry of Public Health, and Royal National Lifeboat Institution of the United Kingdom in organising the Southeast Asia Regional Meeting on Drowning Prevention during July 29-31, 2019. Present at the conference were representatives from the WHO member countries in Southeast Asia (WHO-SEARO), and Western Pacific Region (WHO-WPRO), experts from international organisations, as well as Thai observers. A total of more than 100 people from 16 countries gathted at the AETAS Lumpini Hotel and the ThaiHealth Learning Centre, Bangkok     Drowning is a leading cause of youngsters’ death especially among children under 15 years of age. In 2016, there were 322,000 deaths by drowning worldwide. Deaths often occur to children who are the future of society. Of these, 60 percent occur in the Asia-Pacific region. It is considered a public health problem that affects the quality of life in countries around the world. Thailand, by the Ministry of Public Health, has used this forum to present the success of integration of preventive measures of the relevant ministries and related sectors. Under the MERIT MAKER strategy, over the past 10 years, the number of children’s death by drowning has reduced from 1,500 in...

  Nov 19-20, 2019 – The plan for the development of international trade and health potential (International Trade and Health Programme – ITH) of the International Health Policy Programme (IHPP), in collaboration with the Committee to Support Education and Monitor International Trade Negotiations Affecting Health and Health Policies, and supporters of ITH (Public Health Ministry, World Health Organisation, ThaiHealth, National Health Commission Office, National Health Security Office,  and Health Systems Research Institute) jointly organised the International Trade and Health [ITH] Conference 2019 under the theme of “International Trade and Health of ASEAN: Seeking the common ground for sustainable development goals” at Chamchuri Ballroom, Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort, Bangkok.   More than 150 participants gathered to attend the grand event, with Ms Milin Sakornsindhu, Senior International Affairs Executive, as the event’s moderator. The issues touched in the conference was a discussion on “Building ASEAN Community: Political Economy of Trade and Health” to better understand the scenario of trade and health in the ASEAN region, including the free trade agreements and its impact on the ASEAN people’s health against economic competition. The meeting also served as a common ground for information sharing on the context of ASEAN in terms of trade and health, in order to seek a common footing in trade and health policies within the region.   rn