Noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and cancers, along with mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, act as silent killers, robbing people of lives and potential, said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.
Speaking on Thursday, Dr. Tedros called on countries to ramp up affordable strategies to fight the growing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health conditions. “These NCDs and mental health problems are silent killers that steal lives and innovation,” he emphasized.
A fresh WHO report, “Saving Lives, Spending Less,” highlights a smart investment idea: Just $3 extra per person each year on NCD prevention could bring back up to $1 trillion in economic gains by 2030. That’s a huge win for global health and economies.
The report points out some positive trends—82% of countries cut NCD mortality rates between 2010 and 2019. But progress has slowed to just 60% in most regions, and some places are even seeing a rise in NCD-related deaths.
NCDs cause the majority of deaths worldwide, and over one billion people grapple with mental health conditions. Shockingly, 75% of these NCD and mental health deaths—about 32 million lives lost yearly—happen in low- and middle-income countries.
“We’ve got the tools to save lives and ease suffering,” Dr. Tedros added. He praised leaders like Denmark, South Korea, and Moldova for pushing ahead, while urging others not to lag behind. “Investing against NCDs isn’t just good business—it’s essential for healthy societies.”
Without quick action, millions more will die too soon. The good news? Solutions for tackling NCDs and boosting mental health are cheap and effective, the report stresses.
WHO also pushes governments to stand up to big industries fueling these diseases, like tobacco, alcohol, and ultra-processed food companies. These giants often try to block vital policies, from health taxes to rules protecting kids from harmful ads.
“It’s outrageous that profits come from rising deaths and illness,” said Dr. Etienne Krug, WHO’s Director of Health Determinants, Promotion, and Prevention. “Governments must prioritize people over profits and stick to evidence-based policies, no matter the corporate pushback.”
Stay informed on all the latest news, real-time breaking news updates, and follow all the important headlines in world News on Latest NewsX. Follow us on social media Facebook, Twitter(X), Gettr and subscribe our Youtube Channel.
