Non-communicable disease
- Non-transmissible diseases
Nature
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic medical conditions not transmitted from person to person. Major types include cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes. NCDs are a significant global health problem, responsible for over 70% of deaths worldwide, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries. Risk factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and harmful alcohol consumption contribute to their prevalence. NCDs place a heavy burden on healthcare systems, economies, and families, leading to reduced quality of life, increased disability, and premature mortality. Addressing NCDs requires comprehensive prevention, early detection, and effective management strategies.
Background
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) emerged as a global concern in the late 20th century, as epidemiological data revealed rising mortality from conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses. The World Health Organization’s 2005 report marked a turning point, highlighting NCDs as a leading cause of death worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, and prompting international initiatives to address their growing social and economic impact. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/noncommunicable-diseases
Incidence
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for approximately 74% of all global deaths, with over 41 million people dying each year, according to the World Health Organization. The burden is particularly severe in low- and middle-income countries, where over three-quarters of NCD deaths occur. Cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes are the leading contributors, affecting all age groups and placing immense strain on healthcare systems worldwide.
In 2022, India reported a significant surge in diabetes cases, with the Indian Council of Medical Research estimating over 101 million adults living with the disease. This marked a sharp increase from previous years, highlighting the escalating NCD crisis in the region.
In 2022, India reported a significant surge in diabetes cases, with the Indian Council of Medical Research estimating over 101 million adults living with the disease. This marked a sharp increase from previous years, highlighting the escalating NCD crisis in the region.
Claim
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a critical global crisis that cannot be ignored. They silently claim millions of lives each year, overwhelming healthcare systems and devastating families. Unlike infectious diseases, NCDs like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer are largely preventable, yet they continue to rise due to neglect and poor lifestyle choices. Immediate, decisive action is essential—otherwise, we risk an unstoppable epidemic that will cripple societies and economies worldwide.
Counter-claim
Non-communicable diseases are vastly overhyped as a global concern. With modern medicine, improved lifestyles, and advanced technology, their impact is minimal compared to infectious diseases or environmental crises. Resources should be redirected to more urgent issues rather than focusing on conditions that are largely preventable and manageable. The attention given to non-communicable diseases is disproportionate and distracts from truly pressing health threats facing our world today.
Broader
SDG
Metadata
Database
World problems
Type
(B) Basic universal problems
Biological classification
N/A
Content quality
Yet to rate
Language
English
D7NID
189199
Editing link
Official link
Last update
Nov 3, 2022