Overview: A Regional Commitment to curb noncommunicable diseases
Health authorities from across the Americas have approved a landmark 2025-2030 Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) during the 62nd Directing Council of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The plan represents a pivotal step toward tackling the region’s leading causes of death and disability, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses. By prioritizing stronger primary health care systems and coordinated policy action, the plan seeks to lower the burden of NCDs for millions of people.
Strategic directions: Three lines of action to reduce the NCD burden
The plan outlines three central strategic lines of action designed to reverse current trends and accelerate progress:
- Reducing risk factors and expanding health promotion: This includes population-wide measures to curb tobacco use, harmful alcohol consumption, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and obesity, alongside broader efforts to promote healthier lifestyles.
- Integrating NCD management into primary health care: By weaving prevention, early detection, treatment, and ongoing management into primary care, the plan aims to improve diagnosis, treatment quality, and long-term control of NCDs.
- Strengthening surveillance: Enhanced data collection and monitoring of NCDs and their risk factors will support evidence-based policymaking and enable timely adjustments to interventions.
These lines of action are designed to address a sobering reality: NCDs cause an estimated 6 million deaths annually in the Americas, with about 40% occurring before age 70. The plan targets the approximately 240 million people living with NCDs in the region, acknowledging progress while stressing the need for accelerated action, especially given persistent gaps in diagnosis and treatment.
Key measures and policies
The action plan emphasizes a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. Among the measures highlighted are:
- Fiscal policies to reduce the consumption of tobacco, alcohol, and sugar-sweetened beverages.
- Front-of-package warning labels on ultra-processed foods and restrictions on marketing to protect vulnerable groups.
- Integration into primary care to improve the reach and effectiveness of prevention, diagnosis, and control of NCDs.
- HPV vaccination and cervical cancer screening to support early detection and prevention in women’s health.
- Digital tools and data systems to strengthen surveillance, monitor progress, and inform policy decisions.
In addition, the plan calls for increasing access to essential diagnostics and treatments, aiming to raise control rates for hypertension and diabetes and close gaps in care for underserved populations. The emphasis on primary health care reflects a recognition that accessible, people-centered services are essential to sustainable NCD management.
Implementation and accountability
Progress under the plan will be tracked through biennial reviews, with a midterm assessment in 2028 and a final report in 2031. PAHO and member countries will mobilize resources and support to implement priority actions, ensuring that policy commitments translate into tangible improvements in health outcomes. This approach aligns with broader public health goals and sustainable development objectives in the Americas.
Why this matters now
The approval comes at a critical moment for the region’s health systems. By reinforcing prevention, expanding access to care, and building robust surveillance, the plan aims to reduce premature deaths and improve quality of life for millions of people. It signals a collective commitment to healthier communities where primary care acts as the frontline defense against NCDs and their risk factors, and where data-driven decisions guide progress.
Looking ahead
With the 2025-2030 Action Plan in place, the Americas are positioned to accelerate action against NCDs. The emphasis on teamwork across governments, communities, and health workers marks a practical path toward healthier populations, stronger health systems, and more resilient societies in the face of chronic disease challenges.
