Non-Communicable Diseases

Health is on everyone’s mind. And leaders in the health sector are working to make it a major social issue, not just a medical one. Recently the associations for cancer, heart and diabetes have banded together to focus on chronic, non-communicable diseases (NCD). Discussions on topics like diet and nutrition will be growing even louder in the months ahead, as there is a concerted effort to elevate the importance of lifestyle choices, including greater consumption of fruit and vegetables. Intense scrutiny on fat, salt, and food processing is likely.

They have been very effective at moving the agenda forward in national food discussions and at the international level. Already a World Economic Forum survey stated “NCD’s are a threat to global well being.” Years of effort of their part are culminating in increased profile on national agendas in many developed countries including the UK, US, and Canada. Additionally, a series of international events will further the attention. For instance, it will be the focal point for the Opening the UN General Assembly in September. It is a great time to think about raising your voice on health issues and showing what you can offer to improved diets and nutrition.