OECD: The health and economic benefits of tackling non‑communicable diseases (15 April 2026)

Summary

Despite decades of national efforts, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continue to rise. NCDs are long-lasting health conditions, that typically develop slowly and progress over time. They include cardiovascular diseases (such as heart attacks and strokes), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes. NCDs affect far more than health outcomes: they influence how people live and work, strain families and communities, and impose a growing burden on health systems and economies.

This report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) assesses the health and economic benefits of tackling NCDs. It highlights how countries that succeed in reducing key health risks such as obesity and tobacco use can save lives, ease pressure on health budgets and unlock substantial economic gains.

World Patient Safety Day on the 17 September 2026 is focused on the theme “Safe care for non-communicable diseases”.