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COPENHAGEN, 27 June 2025 — Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes remain the leading cause of death and disability across the WHO European Region, according to a new report released by WHO/Europe. The report reveals that 1.8 million deaths each year are considered avoidable—either preventable through public health measures or treatable with timely, quality healthcare. The economic toll is equally staggering, with productivity losses linked to these deaths estimated at over US$514 billion annually.
Key Findings
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Premature Mortality: In the region, 1 in 5 men and 1 in 10 women die before the age of 70 due to NCDs.
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Preventable and Treatable Causes: Of the avoidable deaths, 60% are attributed to preventable risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use, high blood pressure, unhealthy diets, obesity, and physical inactivity. The remaining 40% are considered treatable, where deaths could be prevented or delayed with early diagnosis and access to quality care.
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Economic Impact: The annual economic loss due to productivity declines from avoidable NCD deaths exceeds US$514 billion, underscoring the urgent need for increased investment in prevention and treatment.
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Policy Gaps: Despite clear evidence that investing in NCD prevention yields high returns, funding remains critically inadequate. The report highlights persistent disparities between countries, with preventable risk factors and mortality rates disproportionately affecting men and populations in the eastern part of the region.
COVID-19 Pandemic Setback
The report warns that progress in reducing premature mortality from NCDs has been significantly derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result, the region is currently off track to meet global NCD targets set for 2025 and 2030.
Leadership Response
Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, emphasized the urgency of addressing NCDs, stating, “If NCDs were a virus, the world would be in lockdown. Our findings show that nearly 2 million deaths can be avoided every year with better prevention or treatment, while saving billions of dollars in health-care costs. Addressing NCDs with bold prevention policies is a political choice. The high burden of NCDs in our societies is not inevitable. We have the power and tools to turn things around”.
Path Forward
The WHO/Europe report calls for stronger public health policies targeting major risk factors and improved access to timely, quality healthcare. It also stresses the need for increased investment and political commitment to reverse current trends and meet international targets for reducing NCD mortality.
Disclaimer: This article is based on information from the World Health Organization (WHO) as of June 2025. The data and statements herein are sourced from the WHO/Europe report and related communications. For the most current and comprehensive information, readers are encouraged to consult the official WHO website and publications.
