Brasilia, March 26, 2025 (PAHO) - Though the Americas have seen a commendable reduction in premature mortality rates from non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—such as hypertension, diabetes, and various cancers—over the last decade, only five countries are poised to meet the ambitious 25% reduction target by 2025, known as the 25x25 target.

During a recent pivotal Regional Meeting on NCD Prevention and Control held from March 24-26 in Brasilia, Brazil, PAHO Director Dr. Jarbas Barbosa delivered a powerful message urging nations to tackle the underlying causes of mortality linked to NCDs. Alarmingly, these diseases claim approximately 6 million lives annually in the Americas.

With over 240 million people in the region living with NCDs requiring ongoing treatment—often met inadequately through primary health care—Dr. Barbosa underscored the urgent need for enhanced care and management. 'Unfortunately, many fail to receive the necessary treatment, or they succumb to their ailments due to ineffective management,' he stated.

The economic ramifications of these diseases are staggering as well. Preliminary projections indicate that NCDs and mental health conditions may lead to a shocking USD 7.3 trillion in economic losses across ten South American countries by 2050, which is equivalent to 4% of the sub-region’s GDP! This staggering figure highlights the financial burden on healthcare systems and the economy.

However, all is not lost! Dr. Barbosa emphasized that we possess the knowledge and tools needed to combat NCDs effectively. He pointed out various cost-effective polices, the so-called 'best buys,' which include: raising taxes on tobacco and alcohol, implementing food labeling systems, vaccinating girls against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the leading cause of cervical cancer, and providing accessible treatment for hypertension and diabetes.

Despite some of these strategies being already in place, he stressed the need for their broader implementation and the provision of quality healthcare for all affected individuals.

The discussions at the Brasilia meeting brought together PAHO experts, national NCD program leaders, and civil society representatives to identify critical strategies to accelerate progress towards the 25x25 target ahead of the 4th United Nations High-Level Meeting on NCDs scheduled for September 2025. Key priorities highlighted include:

Increased investment in NCD prevention and enhanced leadership in addressing risk factors and healthcare policies.

Expanded access to primary health care to facilitate better diagnosis, treatment, and overall coverage.

Promoting policy coherence across various government sectors, incorporating multisectoral NCD commissions to tackle the issue effectively.

In an effort to further enhance the care for NCDs, PAHO recently introduced the “Better Care for NCDs” initiative aimed at providing equitable access to comprehensive NCD services within primary healthcare systems throughout the Americas.

'I encourage all stakeholders to unite with PAHO in implementing this important initiative,' concluded Dr. Barbosa. 'Collaboratively, we can make significant progress toward achieving the NCD targets and improving the health and well-being of individuals across the Americas.'

With rising NCD rates and economic repercussions, the responsibility to act has never been clearer! Will your country be one of the few that leads the way in making a difference?