Chronic Diseases and Health Promotion

WHO/Marko Kokic

Chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes, are by far the leading cause of mortality in the world, representing 60% of all deaths. Out of the 35 million people who died from chronic disease in 2005, half were under 70 and half were women.

This invisible epidemic is an under-appreciated cause of poverty and hinders the economic development of many countries. Contrary to common perception, 80% of chronic disease deaths occur in low and middle income countries.

The global epidemic of chronic disease must, and can, be stopped.

Video Learn about misunderstandings surrounding chronic disease. See the video

Fact File Test your knowledge with these ten startling facts about chronic disease. View the fact file

The vision of the Department of Chronic Disease and Health Promotion (CHP) is a health promoting world free of preventable chronic diseases.

PROMOTE

Promote healthy living (better diet, more physical activity and tobacco cessation) and healthy societies, especially for the poor and those living in disadvantaged populations.

PREVENT

Prevent premature deaths and avoid unnecessary disability due to chronic diseases. The solutions exist now, and many are simple, cheap and cost effective.

TREAT

Treat chronic diseases effectively, using latest available knowledge. Make treatment available to all, especially those in the poorest settings.

CARE

Help provide appropriate care by facilitating equitable and good quality health care for major chronic diseases.

Chronic diseases and health promotion
World Health Organization
Avenue Appia 20
CH-1211 Geneva
Switzerland
chronicdiseases@who.int