Pre-Collegiate

Chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are currently the leading cause of death in the world, becoming increasingly prevalent in developing countries. It is an epidemic that is nearly invisible in the eyes of many health officials and deserves immediate action. Some of the most common NCDs include cardiovascular disease, cancer, and diabetes and these along with others make up nearly 75% of the disease burden globally. There are several risk factors such as unhealthy diets, smoking, and high blood pressure that contribute to NCDs as well. Additionally, due to the healthcare expenses and decreased labor supply that occur as a result of NCDs, this epidemic is detrimental to the global economy and stunts the economic growth of nations. In order to protect global health and economic security, government intervention and commitment to resolving this issue is necessary in eliminating this imminent threat.