Cyprus News Agency

According to the WHO, premature deaths from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer are increasing due to population growth and aging, now accounting for the majority of deaths among those under 70 globally.

The statement noted that the world is off track to reduce the premature NCD mortality rate by one-third by 2030:

"When governments and civil society commit to action, progress is possible: tobacco use is declining, and global alcohol consumption fell from 5.7 liters per capita in 2010 to 5.0 liters in 2022. Air pollution remains one of the top causes of preventable deaths worldwide. Poor mental health continues to hinder progress."

The statement emphasized that recovery in basic health services is not yet complete: "A shortage of 11.1 million health workers is still projected by 2030, with approximately 70% of the shortage concentrated in the WHO African and Eastern Mediterranean regions."