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As we approach the Fourth High-level Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in September 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) has released new data highlighting notable progress in reducing premature mortality from NCDs in Denmark, Estonia, Norway, and Sweden. These nations have managed to lower deaths from cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses, offering valuable insights into the policies that have made this success possible.
While there is no universal solution, there are shared policy actions that can help countries protect their populations from NCDs. Several European Union-funded initiatives, including JA-PreventNCD (Joint Action Prevent Non-Communicable Diseases) and JACARDI (Joint Action Cardiovascular Diseases and Diabetes), have been working with WHO/Europe to pinpoint the characteristics of countries effectively addressing NCD threats. These collaborations also aim to strengthen monitoring systems across Europe.
Strengthening NCD Monitoring Systems: A Collaborative Approach
On September 10, 2024, these organizations hosted the event “Strengthening NCD Monitoring Systems in the EU: A Collaborative Approach,” which presented data on the progress made by countries in achieving both regional and global targets for NCD prevention. The event also emphasized the importance of knowledge-sharing and transparency among Member States of the WHO European Region.
“The countries that use evidence-based practices and adapt them to their specific needs can achieve significant progress. Knowledge and data are crucial in this context. When policy-makers understand their country’s NCD trajectory, including strengths and weaknesses, they can take focused actions for improvement,” said Dr. Knut-Inge Klepp, Scientific Coordinator of JA-PreventNCD.
The event’s sessions fostered dialogue on NCD prevention and established a platform for collaboration. It became clear that countries must invest in robust data systems to make informed decisions, particularly in light of the growing NCD burden.
NCDs: The Leading Health Threat in the European Region
NCDs represent the most significant health threat in the WHO European Region. Together, cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses account for 90% of deaths and 85% of disability. Annually, NCDs are responsible for 8.2 million deaths in the region, 2.3 million of which occur prematurely before the age of 70.
However, hope lies in evidence-based policy actions. WHO data shows that timely, cost-effective interventions—referred to as “Quick buys”—can effectively reduce mortality and morbidity from NCDs.
NCD prevention focuses on avoiding the onset of diseases by empowering people to make healthier choices and shielding them from risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, insufficient physical activity, and unhealthy diets.
“The NCD harm in the WHO European Region is enormous, affecting all levels of society, from childhood obesity to heart attacks and strokes,” said Dr. Gauden Galea, Strategic Adviser to the WHO Regional Director for Europe. “Robust data and surveillance systems are crucial for identifying and addressing these risks. By monitoring progress at the national and regional levels, we can tailor our strategies to the unique challenges faced by each nation.”
A Path Forward: Leveraging Data and Policy for NCD Reduction
Denmark, Estonia, Norway, and Sweden stand out as countries that have successfully reduced premature NCD mortality. WHO/Europe is conducting a comprehensive analysis of the characteristics that led to these reductions, seeking to offer insights to other nations.
“The path forward requires more than just commitment,” emphasized Dr. Benedetta Armocida, Coordinator of JACARDI. “By leveraging our collective expertise, we can turn data into actionable insights, transform policies into practices, and advance justice and equity in health.”
Effective Policy Actions: WHO’s “Quick Buys”
WHO has introduced several “Quick buy” policy actions to help countries accelerate progress toward NCD-related goals, including the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3.4, which seeks to reduce premature NCD mortality by one-third by 2030 compared to 2010 levels.
Among the most effective “Quick buys” are:
- Increasing taxes and pricing on tobacco products, alcohol, and unhealthy foods (high in trans fats, salt, and sugar).
- Banning the advertising and sponsorship of tobacco products, alcohol, and unhealthy foods across all platforms, including social media.
These policy actions can reduce the NCD burden across the region and help create environments where healthier choices become the norm.
Conclusion: A Collective Opportunity
As countries of the WHO European Region continue their fight against NCDs, the data shows that progress is possible. Through strong policies, evidence-based interventions, and robust data systems, nations can protect their populations from the growing threat of NCDs and ensure a healthier future for all.
The lessons learned from Denmark, Estonia, Norway, and Sweden can serve as a blueprint for others. With collaboration, commitment, and a focus on data-driven policies, countries have a unique opportunity to tackle NCDs and achieve meaningful improvements in public health.
