STEPS Survey Training Launch in Suriname

Paramaribo, 29 June 2026 - The Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), today officially launched the training of field workers for the WHO STEPwise Approach to Noncommunicable Disease Risk Factor Surveillance (STEPS) Survey; which will produce national data on the health status of the population related to more than 14 topics, including tobacco and alcohol use, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and mental health.

The training brings together 45 field supervisors and interviewers who will collect high-quality data nationwide as part of Suriname's first STEPS Survey since 2013. The survey will provide updated evidence on the major risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory diseases, which remain the leading causes of premature death and disability in Suriname. Following the training and pilot field exercises, the survey will be implemented nationwide over a three-month period.

The Ministry of Health, Welfare and Labor, together with PAHO/WHO and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), is delighted to launch this important initiative, which will provide the evidence needed to strengthen health policies and programs in Suriname.

Minister of Health, Welfare and Labor, Drs. André Misiekaba, highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating: "This survey is of great value as it will help us to align the planning and projection of our national policies, really contributing to taking steps towards better health in Suriname, as the slogan says."

The PAHO/WHO Representative Yafflo Ouattara emphasized the importance of the field teams, stating: "Quality data begins with committed field workers. Every accurate interview and every respectful interaction with participants contributes to the evidence needed for better health policies. Your work today will help build a healthier future for Suriname."

PAHO/WHO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Suriname in generating high-quality health data, to strengthen prevention, improve health services and roll out evidence- based policies and interventions, and reduce the burden of noncommunicable diseases.