Non-Communicable Diseases

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.

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.”

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.