Fall 2011
This issue of GLOBAL HEALTH magazine highlights the mounting global epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart diseases, cancers, chronic lung diseases and diabetes. Collectively, NCDs and their common risk factors of tobacco use, physical inactivity, abuse of alcohol and unhealthy diet are rising on the political agenda. Indeed, senior government officials will gather this month at the United Nations for the two-day High Level Meeting of the General Assembly to focus international attention on the prevention and control of NCDs.
NCDs arguably pose one of the greatest development challenges of the coming century. Though the success of the high level meeting will be judged largely by government commitments made in the political declaration, the meeting in and of itself can already count many achievements. It has served as a focal point to congregate stakeholders, provoke policy dialogue, and question fundamental approaches to global health. Coalitions and partnerships have emerged. A “health” challenge is being discussed based on non-health factors and determinants. Solutions are being viewed as systemic approaches, considering issues of sustainability and interaction with other components of global, national and local development systems. These issues and others defined by the uncertain political and economic environment constrain solutions, but also provide an opportunity to foster innovation in policy, advocacy, program implementation and development cooperation.
The scale and economic toll posed by NCDs is increasingly clear, requiring urgent action. The burden of NCDs is only projected to worsen, particularly among countries least able to respond. Solutions must come from a variety of fronts, and future social and economic progress will undoubtedly be shaped by how the global community understands, prioritizes and responds to NCDs.
Features
NCDs: It’s Time for a Change
Leveraging Existing Health Platforms to Expand NCD Services
Putting a Face on Cancer and Other NCDs
Grappling with the Tensions around NCDs
NCDs in the Developing World: Looking for Solutions
India: The Private Sector Takes Action on NCDs
Brazil: Getting a Move on NCDs
Partnering for Change: The Role of the Private Sector
Online Exclusives
Dim Sum
A collection of film picks, book reviews, and other items of note
Field Notes
East Africa: As Refugee Numbers Increase, so Does the Risk of Gender-Based Violence
