Only five Americas countries on track for NCD target

Premature deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) like hypertension, diabetes, and cancers have decreased in the Americas over the past decade. The rate dropped from 15.2% in 2010 to 14% in 2021. However, only five countries are on track to meet the global goal of a 25% reduction in premature NCD deaths by 2025. Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, the Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), spoke at a meeting in Brasilia, Brazil, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the main causes of NCD mortality. He noted that around 6 million people die from NCDs each year in the Americas. Over 240 million people in the region live with these diseases and need ongoing treatment, much of which can be provided through primary health care. Dr. Barbosa pointed out the significant economic impact of NCDs. Projections suggest that these diseases, along with mental health conditions, could lead to losses of $7.3 trillion in ten South American countries by 2050. This amount equals about 4% of the region's Gross Domestic Product. There are effective strategies available to prevent and control NCDs. These include raising taxes on tobacco and alcohol, implementing food labeling, vaccinating girls against HPV, and providing treatment for hypertension and diabetes. Many of these methods are already in use but need to be expanded for greater impact. The meeting focused on key steps to boost progress toward the 25x25 target before the upcoming United Nations High-Level Meeting on NCDs in September 2025. Important goals include increasing investment in NCD prevention, improving primary health care access, and promoting coordinated efforts among different government sectors. To further this cause, PAHO has launched the Better Care for NCDs initiative. This program aims to enhance equitable access to comprehensive NCD services within primary health care throughout the Americas. Dr. Barbosa encouraged collaboration with PAHO to achieve NCD targets and improve health and wellbeing in the region.