Non-Communicable Diseases

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental health issues, are a serious global challenge for sustainable development. They are responsible for 74% of deaths globally, with 86% of premature deaths from NCDs occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Yet, resources for addressing NCDs are inversely proportional to the global burden of disease, and the fight against NCDs is largely neglected on the international cooperation agenda.

Aware of these challenges, SDC sets its priorities, designs its interventions accordingly, and takes a unique approach aimed at reframing the NCD challenge. This requires strengthening health system resilience by activating prevention and preparedness functions while using resources sparingly.

Video of a project supported by SDC in BiH

Strengthening Nursing

The BBC Storyworks and The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) have invited us to create a mini documentary to showcase the importance of the SDC’s 'Strengthening Nursing' project in Bosnia & Herzegovina. These nurses have been changing the face of the country’s health system by bringing healthcare to less developed and poverty stricken areas on a daily basis.

Be He@lthy, Be Mobile
Combating NCDs through mobile technology
PDF1.17 MB1 January 2022
Mental Health Atlas
A map of mental health resources globally and an up-to-date overview of mental health system profiles in different countries and regions
PDF5.55 MB1 January 2020
Non-Communicable Diseases Progress Monitor 2022
This Progress Monitor tracks the performance of countries against an agreed set of markers, and shows that 77 countries have fully achieved more indicators in 2022 compared with 2020, when the previous monitoring report was published.
PDF2.10 MB1 January 2022
Norms, Standards and Processes Underpinning WHO Vector Control Policy Development
In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) reviewed its processes for developing and disseminating policy guidance, spearheaded by a detailed analysis conducted within the Global Malaria Programme (GMP). The review identified areas for improvement, one of which is the better communication of the norms, standards and processes underpinning policy recommendations.
PDF917.37 kB1 January 2020
Sources of insulin, oral medicines, and medical devices for diabetes For low- and middle- income countries
PDF660.38 kB15 April 2024
Toolkit on regulatory approaches to non-communicable diseases: Healthy diets and physical activity
The rule of law is vital to the response to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Well-conceived legal frameworks can lead to healthier lives by ensuring that consumers are fully informed about the foods they eat and have access to quality, healthy products. They can promote healthier diets and more exercise
PDF1.33 MB1 January 2022

News

Interviews, Videos & Guest Articles30 September 2025

Scaling Up NCD Solutions in Moldova

On 20-21 June 2025, the Moldovan-Swiss project “Healthy Life: Reducing the Burden of Noncommunicable Diseases” took part in an international scientific conference “Public Health Management: Achievements, Challenges, Perspectives”, organized on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Nicolae Testemițanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy (USMF) and the 20th anniversary of the School of Public Health Management in the Republic of Moldova.

Communication27 June 2025

Re-framing Health Communication About Non-Communicable Diseases in Kosovo

Health campaigns in Kosovo have for years focused on raising awareness about chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension. The messages have been clear: avoid sugar, reduce salt, stop smoking, and maintain an active lifestyle. But in conversations with patients and communities, a recurring sentiment emerged: “We can find information what not to do. What we don’t hear often is how to live better.”

Interviews, Videos & Guest Articles28 March 2025

Advancing multisectoral solutions for NCD prevention at the 2025 Global NCD Alliance Forum

Under the theme “Leadership on NCDs Towards 2025 and Beyond”, the Forum convened a diverse group of stakeholders, including civil society, governments, UN agencies, academia, and the private sector. With discussions centered on three main topics, namely inspiring leadership, mobilizing sustainable financing, and empowering communities, the Forum aimed to elevate awareness of NCDs, accelerate collective action, promote evidence-based practices, and drive global commitment to prioritizing NCDs in health and development agendas.

Upcoming Events

Reports and studies1 January 2020

Mental Health Atlas

A map of mental health resources globally and an up-to-date overview of mental health system profiles in different countries and regions

PDF5.55 MB

Guidelines and procedures1 January 2022

Toolkit on regulatory approaches to non-communicable diseases: Healthy diets and physical activity

The rule of law is vital to the response to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Well-conceived legal frameworks can lead to healthier lives by ensuring that consumers are fully informed about the foods they eat and have access to quality, healthy products. They can promote healthier diets and more exercise

PDF1.33 MB

Reports and studies1 January 2022