| By Kong Phano and Lim Sophorn, ADRA Cambodia
Pursat Province, Cambodia – 26 February 2026
ADRA Cambodia, in collaboration with the Pursat Municipality, the Pursat Provincial Health Department, Department of Education, Youth and Sport, Bakan district, and local authority, organized a Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Awareness Campaign under the theme “Healthy Me, Healthy Cambodia” on 26 February 2026 at Doung Chrum Secondary High School, Boeung Botdondol Commune, Bakan District, Pursat Province.
The campaign focused on raising awareness and prevention of Diabetes, Hypertension, and Obesity, which are among the fastest-growing non-communicable diseases affecting Cambodians. According to the STEPS Survey 2023 conducted by the Ministry of Health and WHO, key NCD risk factors—such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, harmful alcohol use, and tobacco consumption—continue to rise among adults aged 18–69 years, increasing the burden on individuals, families, and the national health system.
Supported by the Australian Government through the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP) , this school-based and community-inclusive campaign aims to:
- To raise awareness on NCDs prevention by reducing tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and harmful alcohol consumption for students and the community
- To understand the knowledge of NCDs and be able to share it among the school and community.
- To inform and support those who are at risk for early check-up and prevention
- To continue collaborating on NCD activities with key stakeholders, NGOs, and local authorities.
Mr. Try Kimlong, Representative of ADRA Cambodia, highlighted that the project applies the Bridge to Better Health (B2BH) approach, which focuses on improving daily lifestyle behaviors.
“Through the B2BH approach, we encourage healthier eating, regular exercise, and reduced unhealthy behaviors. The program also integrates home gardening, helping families access nutritious food and earn additional income, while strengthening health through community participation and mutual support.”
Mr. Chhay Kimmong, Governor of Bakan District Administration, emphasized the growing burden of non-communicable diseases on families and communities.
“Non-communicable diseases place a heavy financial and social burden on families. The ‘Model House’ initiative encourages clean environments, healthy diets, and regular exercise to build stronger, healthier communities and future generations.”
Her Excellency Pok Nady, Deputy Governor of Pursat Provincial Administration, stressed the need for collective action to reduce NCD risks.
“Poor health limits our ability to work and support our families. By working together—government, health services, partners, and communities—we can reduce the risks of non-communicable diseases and improve overall wellbeing.”
The event brought together around 600 participants, including students, teachers, community members, local authorities, key stakeholders, NGOs partners (KHANA and KoFHI), and health officials. Activities include a 400-meter awareness walk from the commune office to Doung Chrum Secondary High School, health messages delivered by representatives from the Pursat Municipality and ADRA Cambodia, group exercise sessions led by health center staff, interactive discussions, and the promotion of national health messages such as “Less Salt, Less Sugar, Less Oil.” Healthy snacks will also be provided to participants to reinforce positive nutrition practices.
Through this campaign, ADRA Cambodia and its partners reaffirm their commitment to supporting the National Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs 2022–2030, contributing to healthier behaviors, early prevention, and improved access to essential health services for Cambodian communities.
For media inquiries, please contact:
📩 Mr. Kong Phano, Public Relations Coordinator, ADRA Cambodia
📧 [email protected]
📞 +855 77 398 477
Media Coverage
📺 Local TV coverage in Pursat TVK: Watch Here
📺 National TV coverage Reaksmey Hang Meas – at 16:00 mins: Watch Here
