Despite a decade of progress in reducing premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer, only five countries in the Americas are on track to meet the global target of a 25% reduction by 2025, known as the 25x25 target. While the region saw a decline in premature NCD mortality from 15.2% in 2010 to 14% in 2021, the challenge remains significant, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).

A Call for Accelerated Action

At the Regional Meeting on Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Control held from March 24-26 in Brasilia, Brazil, PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa urged countries to intensify efforts against the leading causes of NCD-related deaths, which claim around six million lives annually in the Americas.

“Over 240 million people in the Americas are living with NCDs and require continuous treatment, most of which can be provided through primary health care,” Dr. Barbosa emphasized. “However, many people do not receive adequate care or succumb to their illness due to poor management and control.”

Economic Burden of NCDs

The financial toll of NCDs is equally alarming. While regional data is still being assessed, projections suggest that in ten South American countries, NCDs and mental health conditions could lead to combined economic losses of $7.3 trillion by 2050, equating to 4% of the sub-region's Gross Domestic Product (GDP).