Rationale for Action

Key Messages

* Compelling reasons to address NCDs in South Asia now include social and political factors (South Asians experience a disproportionate burden of noncommunicable disease), economic factors (costs and efficiency), equity factors, and health sector factors (unprevented and unmanaged NCDs are straining services and budgets).

* From a social and political perspective, South Asians suffer from a relatively heavy CVD burden that is especially tough on the poor; unfavorable social determinants add to this burden.

* From an economic perspective, a solid rationale for public policy and investment is based on

both efficiencies and equity.

* Diminished health from NCDs can lead to lower economic growth and to increased poverty.

* Delaying the prevention and treatment of NCDs will strain services and budgets, and further

exacerbate poverty.

* Many feasible and affordable strategies and interventions for NCD prevention and control are

available.

Introduction

Many compelling reasons are pushing countries toward tackling NCDs. This section summarizes the key issues for South Asia including social, political, economic, and development aspects, as well as health sector perspectives.