In the first series paper, researchers led by Sir George Alleyne, Emeritus Director of the Pan American Health Organization, Washington, USA outline the case for making NCDs central to the post-2015 development agenda and the new development goals being devised over the next 2 years by governments and the United Nations.

According to Alleyne, “Health is essential to the ability of people to contribute to sustainable development, productivity, economic growth, and to adapt to environmental change. Since NCDs are a major contributor to ill health, accounting for 54% of all disability worldwide, and 65% of deaths globally, any realistic attempt to make human development sustainable must take NCDs into account.”

The post-2015 development agenda should include measurable targets for prevention and treatment of NCDs that lead to the achievement of the 25 by 25 goal, say the authors, adding that, “the acceptance both nationally and internationally of the need to embed NCDs in the post-2015 development agenda will depend on the input of many people and groups and the persuasion of many parties. A strong movement is needed based on the evidence already available, enhanced by effective partnerships, and with high-level political support.”

Source: Lancet