WHO Moves Its Focus to Lifestyle Diseases

The World Health Organization (WHO) has shifted its focus towards lifestyle diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, etc. Millions of people under the age of 60 have died due to Non Communicable Diseases (NCD).

The Global Status Report on Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) 2010 is the first report on worldwide epidemic of cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases and their risk factors. The report suggests reduction of risk factors like tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity and harmful alcohol use.

Finland has taken measurable steps to reduce deaths from NCDs. It takes a combined effort of the government agencies, food industries and healthcare providers to make a difference. Meanwhile, as individuals, we can contribute towards reduction in NCDs by following healthy eating habits, maintaining our weight & waistline, exercising regularly, not smoking, controlling our stresses and limiting our alcohol intake.