Commonwealth Leaders Unite Against Deadly NCDs

Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are responsible for 150 million premature deaths among individuals aged 30 to 70, with a significant impact in developing Commonwealth nations. NCDs encompass a range of illnesses, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes.

To address this pressing concern, government leaders and various stakeholders convened on Friday during the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa. The meeting focused on strengthening their commitment to combat NCDs and enhance mental health support.

The gathering, titled “Weaving a Healthy Commonwealth Aiga for Combating Non-Communicable Diseases and Promoting Mental Health,” was organized in partnership with Samoa’s Ministry of Health, the WHO Representative Office in Samoa, and the Commonwealth Secretariat.

The event emphasized the necessity of robust political will, effective partnerships, and community participation in addressing the global health challenges presented by NCDs and mental health issues.

Dr. Kim Eva Dickson, WHO representative for Samoa, American Samoa, Cook Islands, Niue, and Tokelau, stated that combating NCDs and mental health issues requires a collaborative effort beyond the health sector. She highlighted the need for whole-of-government and whole-of-society involvement, suggesting that by leveraging community strengths and coordinating across different sectors, the burden of NCDs and mental health conditions can be significantly alleviated.

Professor Dr. Alec Ekeroma, Director General of Health, pointed out Samoa’s unique approach. He noted that the “Package of Essential NCD Services (PEN) Fa’a Samoa” has been effectively implemented in local communities, reflecting Samoa’s strong commitment to addressing NCDs and mental health challenges.

Dr. Ekeroma added that the government is continuously exploring innovative strategies to enhance partnerships with various sectors, aiming to reduce the incidence of NCDs while improving mental health outcomes for the populace.