This report sets out the statistics, evidence and experiences needed to launch a more
forceful response to the growing threat posed by noncommunicable diseases. While advice
and recommendations are universally relevant, the report gives particular attention to
conditions in low-and middle-income countries, which now bear nearly 80% of the burden
from diseases like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory
diseases. The health consequences of the worldwide epidemic of obesity are also …

The Global Status Report on Noncommunicable Diseases is the first report on the worldwide
epidemic of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases,
along with their risk factors and determinants. Noncommunicable diseases killed 36 million
people in 2008, and a large proportion of these deaths occurred before the age of 60, so
during the most productive period of life. The magnitude of these diseases continues to rise,
especially in low-and middle-income countries. This report reviews the current status of …