Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the number one cause of death and disability in the world.
The term NCDs refers to a group of conditions that are not mainly caused by an acute infection.
The illnesses result in long-term health consequences and often create a need for long-term treatment and care.
The conditions include cancers, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and chronic lung illnesses.
WHO says many NCDs can be prevented by reducing common risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol use, physical inactivity and unhealthy diets.