This question and answers document aims to give a brief summary of the linkages between COVID-19 and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). It is not a comprehensive review. Information is provided on ten frequently asked questions on risk to COVID-19; impact on funding and NCD programme delivery; causes of disruptions to NCD programme delivery during COVID-19, how COVID-19 affects people living with NCDs including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, obesity, dementia; how does COVID-19 impact people living with or affected by mental health conditions; what is the role of diet and physical activity during COVID-19; how are unhealthy industries influencing behaviour and practices during COVID-19; does air pollution increase the risk of COVID-19; does smoking and tobacco use increase the risk of COVID-19; what preparedness steps could be taken to reduce the impact of COVID-19 on people living with or affected by NCDs? 

For more information, please visit NCDA’s resources page, and our page of calls to action from the NCD civil society movement in response to this new pandemic.