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Why NCDs

NCDs are a major global health and sustainable development issue. Explore more in this section!

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) include chronic conditions like cancers, cardiovascular disease, stroke, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes, and mental health and neurological disorders among many others. They are unified by the cross-cutting nature of common risk factors including unhealthy diets, alcohol, tobacco use, physical inactivity and air pollution – and shared health system solutions to tackle NCDs.

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NCDs

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) – mainly cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes – are the most common cause of death and disability worldwide, accounting for 70% of all deaths and more than three out of four years lived with a disability.

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Financing NCDs

The financial burden of NCDs is immense, and the financial investment to alleviate this burden on patients, families and carers is comparatively small. WHO's 'Best Buys' offer options that provide not only financial return on investment, but also health and social benefits. 

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NCDs and Sustainable Development

NCDs (non communicable diseases) are the #1 cause of death and disability worldwide, and impose years of disability on those affected and their families. NCDs are a significant threat to achieving internationally agreed development goals.

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Risk Factors & Prevention

Many NCDs can be prevented by addressing diet, physical inactivity, tobacco and alcohol use and making the places we live into health enabling environments. 
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Care

Lack of access and high cost of care, essential medicines and technologies increases morbidity and mortality, and can force people and families into poverty due to disability and out-of-pocket expenses.

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NCDs and COVID-19

This page shares various resources, tools and information to support our network navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Video Stories of Change

Solutions to the world’s most pressing health challenge – noncommunicable diseases – told in video format. Explore examples and evidence from around the world of people, communities, organisations and governments stepping up to protect health, promote rights and save lives.
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Voices of the Health Revolution

Voices of the Health Revolution is a podcast series that shines a spotlight on the trailblazers who are leading bold action to protect our universal right to health - even when that means taking a stand against the big industries who threaten it.

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Universal Health Coverage (UHC)

Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is a system where everyone, everywhere has access to high-quality health care services that they need and without facing financial hardship. At least half the world's population is currently without comprehensive coverage of essential health services.