Non-communicable diseases must be given greater priority, says WHO.

The article reports on a global initiative launched by the World Health Organization (WHO) to ensure that non-communicable diseases are given greater priority in the health and development policies of poor nations. According to WHO, non-communicable diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes, are responsible for about 35 million deaths annually or 60% of all deaths worldwide. The WHO also predicted double-digit increases in mortality from non-communicable diseases in the coming years so there is an urgent need to act. WHO assistant director general for non-communicable diseases Doctor Ala Alwan has stressed the burden of non-communicable diseases on socioeconomic development in poor nations.