However, the impact of non-communicable diseases can be prevented with an
approach that incorporates cost-effective, population-wide health-care interventions
to address risk factors, known as public health “best buys”, and primary health-care
measures to treat those who have contracted or are at high risk of contracting such
diseases. The widespread implementation of such interventions, which require
modest investment, can lead to quick gains in counteracting the effects of
non-communicable diseases.
The best buys for population-wide interventions include tobacco-control
measures, including raising taxes and bans on advertising and smoking in public
places; raising taxes on alcohol and enforcing bans on alcohol advertising; reducing
salt intake; replacing trans-fats in foods with polyunsaturated fats; promoting public
awareness about diet and physical activity; and delivering hepatitis B vaccinations.
Primary health-care interventions include counselling, multi-drug therapy and
screening and early treatment for cervical and breast cancers.
The obstacles are many yet the moral, social and economic imperative is clear.
At present, there is an unprecedented ability to critically analyse weaknesses and
opportunities in the emerging battle to prevent and control non-communicable
diseases. Throughout the debate over best policy and programme action, it must be
remembered that the health and socio-economic impacts of such diseases are largely
preventable and that the public health foundation of research and technical skill
needed for progress is strong.