Film series on people living with noncommunicable diseases and mental health conditions: Ali's story

Type 2 diabetes in a changing environment: Ali’s lived experience in Lebanon  

In the municipality of Ghobeiry in Lebanon, Ali motivates others in his community to exercise, eat better food and lead a healthier life, after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes in 2017.

“People may not be taking care of themselves, not because they can't buy medicine, or are without access to healthy food. They would have all the tools, but they are unable to use them for underlying mental reasons.” he says.

Individuals and communities with first-hand experience in living with NCDs and mental health conditions hold the key to designing effective, inclusive, equitable health interventions that leave no one behind. Their voices can unlock opportunities to overcome barriers in accessing and sustaining health care. The right to participate in one’s care is also a fundamental part of the human right to the highest attainable standard of health.

Watch Ali’s story: Arabic | Chinese | English | French | Russian | Spanish

Read more about WHO's commitement to advancing the meaningful engagement of people living with NCDs and mental health conditions.