At the 78th UN General Assembly in Manhattan, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo highlighted the role of world leaders in the battle against non-communicable diseases (NCDs). He called for more funding, saying the Global Group of Heads of State should prioritise NCD prevention and control.
Speaking via Health Minister Kwaku Agyeman-Manu, the President noted that diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart issues lead to most global deaths. The World Health Organisation (WHO) confirms this. While 80% of such diseases can be prevented, current strategies aren’t enough.
As the group co-chair, President Akufo-Addo discussed the annual meetings aimed at global commitment to the NCD agenda. Their goal is a high-level meeting on NCDs in 2025. The focus also extends to the Global NCD Compact 2020–2030, targeting local and global steps towards NCDs and SDGs.
According to a report by Graphic Online, the President shared alarming data from the Compact: 28 people die from NCDs every minute. This rate exists because many countries ignore key policies. Even though NCDs are a major death cause, they get only 1-2% of health aid. He asked countries to follow the Global Action Plan for NCDs and invest more.
President Akufo-Addo expressed his worries about the rising public health risk from NCDs. He said, “We must work together with more money and focus.” He stressed the need for strong national plans to meet the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director-General, stressed the risk by mentioning 17 million early deaths from NCDs or mental issues annually. Praising Ghana’s steps, he acknowledged President Akufo-Addo’s strong commitment and encouraged other nations to act.
Dr. Ghebreyesus spoke about global tobacco use and adults not exercising enough. He said, “Obesity and high blood pressure are big problems. Global Group members must work hard against NCDs to ensure health coverage for all.”
In conclusion, global leaders must address the massive NCD challenge. The key? More focus, funding, and teamwork
