Global NCDs in Children & Adolescents: UN Calls for Renewed Action
- World leaders have adopted a new political declaration aimed at combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving mental health globally, marking a significant step towards a more integrated approach...
- NCDs, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, are now the leading causes of death worldwide, claiming an estimated 18 million lives prematurely each year.
- Projections indicate that NCDs could cost the global economy over US$47 trillion by 2040.
World leaders have adopted a new political declaration aimed at combating non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and improving mental health globally, marking a significant step towards a more integrated approach to these pressing health challenges. The declaration, adopted at the Eightieth United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on , builds upon previous commitments and sets specific global targets for 2030.
NCDs, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, are now the leading causes of death worldwide, claiming an estimated 18 million lives prematurely each year. Mental health conditions affect over a billion people globally. The declaration recognizes the interconnectedness of these issues, acknowledging that many of the risk factors driving NCDs – such as unhealthy diets, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and air pollution – also negatively impact mental well-being.
This new commitment comes at a critical time. Projections indicate that NCDs could cost the global economy over US$47 trillion by 2040. The declaration acknowledges that both NCDs and mental health conditions are increasing in prevalence across all countries and communities, posing significant challenges not only to public health but also to productivity and sustainable economic growth.
New Global Targets for 2030
A key feature of the declaration is the establishment of three first-ever global “fast-track” outcome targets to be achieved by 2030. These targets represent a significant evolution from previous commitments, aiming for measurable progress in key areas:
- Reduce tobacco use: A goal of 150 million fewer tobacco users worldwide.
- Control hypertension: An aim to bring 150 million more people with hypertension under control.
- Expand mental health care access: A commitment to provide access to mental health care for an additional 150 million people.
These targets are intended to drive focused action and allow for clear monitoring of progress. The declaration, titled “Equity and integration: transforming lives and livelihoods through leadership and action on noncommunicable diseases and the promotion of mental health and well-being,” emphasizes the importance of addressing health inequities and integrating NCD and mental health services into broader healthcare systems.
Addressing Gaps and the Need for Urgent Action
While the declaration is welcomed as a step forward, concerns remain regarding critical gaps in commitments. Experts emphasize the need for urgent action to translate the declaration’s goals into tangible results. One notable omission is strong language supporting health-promoting fiscal policies, such as taxes on tobacco, alcohol, and sugary drinks – measures proven to save lives and generate revenue for health programs.
The declaration does include commitments to financial protection targets, aiming to reduce the burden of out-of-pocket expenses for medicines and treatment that can push millions into poverty. This is seen as a positive development. However, some stakeholders argue that the declaration falls short of delivering a concise, action-oriented plan with measurable targets, as initially mandated.
Focus on Children and Adolescents
The need for a renewed global commitment to improving the survival and reducing the suffering of children and adolescents with NCDs, particularly those affected by childhood cancer and sickle cell disease, was highlighted during the Fourth High-level Meeting of the UN General Assembly on the prevention and control of NCDs and the promotion of mental health and wellbeing, held on . Current global monitoring frameworks do not adequately account for the severe NCDs impacting young people under the age of 30.
The World Heart Federation has also called for a renewed global commitment to redefine NCDs, with a particular focus on the needs of children, adolescents, and older adults living with these conditions.
Looking Ahead
The adoption of this political declaration represents a unique opportunity to accelerate global progress in addressing NCDs and mental health. The success of this initiative will depend on the commitment of governments, international organizations, civil society, and the private sector to translate the declaration’s ambitious goals into concrete actions and measurable outcomes. Continued monitoring, evaluation, and adaptation will be crucial to ensure that the world stays on track to achieve the 2030 targets and improve the health and well-being of populations worldwide.