Avoidable mortality, risk factors and policies for tackling noncommunicable diseases – leveraging data for impact: monitoring commitments in the WHO European Region ahead of the Fourth United Nations High-Level Meeting

Noncommunicable diseases (‎NCDs)‎, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases, remain the leading cause of death and disability in the WHO European Region. Approximately 1.8 million deaths annually are avoidable, with 60% preventable through reduced exposure to risk factors and public health interventions, and 40% treatable with timely and high-quality health care. While premature mortality has decreased since 2010, progress was significantly disrupted by the coronavirus disease pandemic. Progress towards many global targets has been made, but in all cases (‎except suicide mortality and alcohol use)‎ it is not sufficient to meet agreed targets by 2025 and 2030. Inequalities between sexes and countries have decreased for mortality and air pollution, but increased for tobacco use, obesity, raised blood pressure and diabetes. The report notes that, in order to tackle NCDs and address the commercial, social, environmental and digital determinants of health, there is a need for accelerated multisectoral whole-of-government and whole-of-society action, integrated policies, enhanced preventive measures and strengthened health systems.