Dr. Mahendra Carpen was part of Dr. Irfaan Ali’s team, the President of Guyana, at the UN Heads of State summit in New York, USA.
At the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Guyana’s leading cardiologist and Presidential Adviser on Science and Healthcare Modernization, Dr. Mahendra Carpen, told world leaders that the country is showing how committed political leadership, supported by resources, can greatly improve health outcomes.
Speaking during a high-level discussion on the Prevention of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) and the Promotion of Mental Health and Wellbeing, Dr. Carpen described these issues as “among the greatest health and developmental challenges of our time.” He pointed out that NCDs are responsible for 41 million deaths every year, while “mental health conditions remain a leading cause of disability worldwide.”
He emphasized that poorer nations are most at risk, noting, “The burden falls heaviest on low and middle-income countries where health systems are often least prepared to respond.”
Highlighting Guyana’s response, Dr. Carpen said the country is demonstrating how change can happen when political intent is backed by financial support. “In Guyana, we are showing what is possible when political will is combined with investment,” he explained.
The adviser highlighted key improvements already in progress: expanded access to primary healthcare, development of new health facilities, recruitment of more medical personnel, and the implementation of telemedicine programs to serve remote villages.
He also highlighted Guyana’s involvement in the PAHO Hearts initiative, which is implementing standardized treatment for hypertension and diabetes to reduce the risks of heart disease and stroke. Screening for breast, cervical, and prostate cancers has also expanded, and a new mental health framework is decentralizing services across the country.
Over five years, government funding for health has increased from $35 billion to $143 billion—nearly a 300 percent rise.
It highlights how a strategic and consistent investment can build resilient, people-centered health systems that can address NCDs,” Dr. Carpen emphasised.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali has appointed the right adviser on health matters, and Dr. Mahendra Carpen would do an excellent job protecting the nation’s health and welfare.