Chronic diseases (including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, lung diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, cancer, and others) remain the leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for 74% of all deaths. In 2019, NCDs accounted for 42 million of the 57 million deaths, with 27 million occurring before age 80.
Since around 2010, governments in many countries have begun actively implementing programs to combat NCDs. However, the global impact of these efforts remains questionable.
A new study analyzed a large data set to assess whether these measures have actually contributed to a reduction in NCD mortality. The analysis covered the period from 2010 to 2019 in 185 countries, focusing on 63 countries with the most comprehensive data. The COVID-19 pandemic was excluded from the analysis.
The analysis found a decline in NCD mortality in most countries, but the rate of decline was slower than in the previous decade. Furthermore, significant differences were observed between countries.
Experts note that South Korea, Singapore, and Denmark have achieved the greatest success in reducing NCD mortality, while the United States and Germany have achieved the least. In some countries, such as India, the positive trend has been reversed by an increase in NCD mortality since 2010.
Overall, progress in combating NCDs has slowed in many countries, and the prospects for significant increases in life expectancy remain uncertain. Efforts to prevent and treat diseases must be intensified.