United Nations, May 20 – Non-communicable diseases are on the rise and account for nearly three quarters of annual deaths globally, with no clear signs that the trend will reverse anytime soon. Unless substantial investments are made and effective and immediate measures are taken, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned this Friday.
The agency said that, if they continue at the same rate, chronic diseases will be an increasing threat to future generations and estimates that, if they do not change their trajectory, they will cause 86% of annual deaths by mid-century. Will become
In its annual World Health Statistics report, WHO provides an overview of key health problems and calls for action to highlight progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals.
Impact of climate change
In addition to non-communicable diseases, the study highlights that climate change has an impact on the health of people, especially the poorest and most vulnerable.
It warns that climate change is rapidly degrading the environment and physical and mental health, posing enormous risks to all.
The document, prepared with data up to 2022, says that, although exposure to many health risks – such as tobacco or alcohol use, violence, unsafe water and poor sanitation – has decreased, progress has been insufficient and other risks , such as air pollution, are still present in people’s lives today.
Obesity increases the risk of other chronic diseases such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
Far from universal health coverage
With regard to progress towards universal health coverage, the WHO reported that progress has been slower than that achieved by 2015, despite the fact that financial difficulties due to the cost of medical care remain.
The report, an annual review of the state of global health, concludes by calling for a substantial increase in investment in health and health systems “to return to the path of achieving the Sustainable Development Goals”.
