Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), also known as chronic diseases, are not passed from person to person. They are often caused by a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental and behavioural factors. The most common NCDs are cardiovascular diseases (such as heart attacks and strokes), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases (such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma), and diabetes.
NCDs are a major cause of death and disability worldwide, and they pose a significant threat to global health and development. In 2019, NCDs were responsible for an estimated 74% of all deaths worldwide.There are a number of things that can be done to prevent and control NCDs, these include:
