JSS Academy brings together health leaders to tackle the surge of lifestyle diseases
Health
As the developing world faces an escalating crisis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the International Conference on “Lifestyle Diseases (LSD) in the Developing World: Perspectives, Current Status and Future Challenges” (LSD–2026) successfully commenced on May 14, 2026. The two-day summit has brought together a prestigious assembly of policymakers, researchers, and healthcare professionals to chart a sustainable path forward for global public health.
The conference is a collaborative effort between the JSS Academy of Higher Education and Research, Mauritius (JSSAHERM) and the Centre for Science and Technology of the Non-Aligned and Other Developing Countries (NAM S&T Centre) based in New Delhi.
A High-Level Call to Action
The inaugural session was headlined by Dr Kaviraj Sharma Sukon, Minister of Tertiary Education, Science and Research. In his keynote address, Minister Sukon underscored the critical burden that diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders place on developing economies. He remarked that there is an urgent need for evidence-based, multi-sectoral strategies and noted that the fusion of digital health, international partnerships, and rigorous research is no longer optional, but a necessity to combat the rising tide of NCDs.
Joining him on the dais were Dr Amitava Bandopadhyay, Director General of the NAM S&T Centre; Prof Praveen Mohadeb, CEO and Vice Chancellor of JSS Academy Mr Naveen K P, Registrar; and Prof Ashish Wadhwani, the Organizing Chairperson of LSD–2026.
Innovation and Education at the Forefront
Prof Mohadeb took the opportunity to highlight the rapid evolution of JSS Academy. Since its inception in 2018, the institution has become a cornerstone of healthcare education in the region, boasting internationally accredited pharmacy programs and a growing portfolio of high-impact research. The conference’s technical sessions, as outlined by Prof Wadhwani, delve into modern complexities such as the nutrition transition and the impact of rapid urbanization, the role of Artificial Intelligence in digital health, mental health challenges among the youth, and gender disparities in clinical settings.
The most significant milestone of the opening day was the adoption of the “Mauritius Resolution on Lifestyle Diseases 2026”, which will serve as a strategic blueprint for participating nations, outlining recommendations for strengthening NCD surveillance, promoting preventive healthcare, and integrating Artificial Intelligence into primary health systems. It also places a heavy emphasis on addressing social determinants of health and ensuring better access to essential medicines across developing borders.
A Global Hybrid Forum
LSD–2026 reflects the modern era of scientific exchange, featuring a hybrid format that allows experts from South Africa, India, Malaysia, Kenya, Palestine, Indonesia, and beyond to contribute both in-person and virtually. As the conference concludes today, May 15, the organizers remain confident that the deliberations and the newly adopted resolution will contribute significantly toward shaping future healthcare policies and sustainable interventions.
The ultimate goal remains clear: reducing the global burden of lifestyle-related conditions and improving public health outcomes across the developing world.
Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 15 May 2026
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