what are non-communicable diseases?
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), also known as chronic diseases, are not passed from person to person. They are of a long duration, generally slow progression, and occur from a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental and behaviours factors. NCDs kill 42 million people annually, with 86 per cent of these deaths in low- and middle-income countries. Often associated with adulthood, NCDs have a significant impact on children and adolescents across the life-course.