OneWorld.net (U.S.)

Chronic, non-communicable diseases (NCDs), mental health disorders, and injuries and violence are major problems, accounting for over 40 per cent of the disease burden in high mortality developing countries, and over 75 per cent in lower mortality developing countries. NCDs, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease and major cancers, are often considered to be "diseases of affluence". However, the majority of their disease burden occurs in developing countries, and at rates, particularly in urban areas, that are often substantially higher than in developed countries. As the populations of developing countries age, and with rapid urbanisation and globalisation driving increases in the risk factors for chronic NCDs, their burden is increasing rapidly.

Of the estimated 400 million persons affected by mental disorders, most live in developing countries which command only a fraction of global mental health resources. Mental disorders account for 5-10 per cent of the burden of disease in these countries. Vulnerable populations, such as the poor and those affected by disasters, are at greater risk. Mental disorders can be effectively and affordably treated at the local level. However, most of those in need do not receive any treatment. Injuries, including those caused by violence, are also a major public health concern, leading to over five million deaths worldwide each year. They include motor vehicle crashes, homicide, suicide, falls, poisoning, drowning, fires and burns. On the whole, injuries do not occur at random: they are largely predictable and, therefore, preventable.

In total, NCDs, mental health disorders and injuries and violence place a substantial economic burden on families and communities, and are a hindrance to social and economic development. However, their prevention and control currently receive trivial funding from the global assistance community.

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