NON-COMMUNICABLE diseases (NCDs) are often underestimated, as many believe they do not pose immediate life-threatening risks. However, NCDs are responsible for taking a life every two seconds, primarily among individuals under 70 years old. According to surveys, 70 per cent of global deaths are caused by NCDs, making them a significant health concern worldwide.
NCDs encompass a wide range of conditions, including diabetes, lung cancer, hypertension, mental health disorders, and cardiovascular diseases. To address the growing impact of these diseases, civil society organizations from 11 countries — India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste — have formed the Southeast Asian Region Non-Communicable Disease Alliance (SEAR NCDA). This alliance aims to prevent and control NCDs across the region.
One of the most concerning aspects of NCDs is their effect on the working-age population. These diseases disproportionately affect people in their most productive years, leading to a loss of valuable workforce and hindering economic growth. Therefore, it is crucial for all countries to address the dangers posed by NCDs through timely healthcare services, vaccination programmes, and public health initiatives.
From 21 to 23 August 2024, SEAR NCDA held a virtual conference to discuss strategies for combatting NCDs. The conference focused on various conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, kidney disorders, cancers, strokes, developmental disorders, preventable eye conditions, and mental health issues. Participants emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts to reduce the burden of NCDs in the region.
Many NCDs can be controlled and prevented through proper healthcare and lifestyle changes. However, medical efforts alone are not enough. People must also adhere to preventive measures recommended by the Ministry of Health. Failure to follow these guidelines can result in individuals falling victim to NCDs, which could ultimately lead to death.
While the average human life expectancy does not typically exceed 100 years, it is crucial for everyone to strive for a life free from debilitating diseases. Unfortunately, many people are more concerned with the risks of infectious diseases, often overlooking the dangers posed by NCDs. By raising awareness and promoting preventive measures, we can reduce the impact of NCDs and ensure healthier, longer lives for all.
Although health experts and specialists try hard to overcome the challenges of communicable and non-communicable diseases to save the lives of patients as much as possible, patients with various kinds of diseases still lose some amounts of human lives one after another. So, everybody wishing to save their lives needs to take care of dangerous non-communicable diseases at any time.
