Non-communicable diseases in Afghanistan Dr. Fahim Paigham Head of NCD department MoPH

NCD situation in Afghanistan Afghanistan is in the early stages of the demographic transition NCD is making it a double burden on population. About 35 percent of all deaths in Afghanistan are due to non-communicable diseases (AMS) 38% in Women 33% in men Cardiovascular diseases, malignant neoplasm, diabetes, respiratory diseases, and digestive diseases are the leading cause of deaths due to NCDs, which account 14%, 7.3%, 3.7%, 1.9%, and 1.8% of total NCDs deaths, respectively. Injury related deaths 7% in women 21% in men

Structure of prevention NCDs set as an important priority in National Health Policy (2020), Strategic Plan 2011-2015 A department under the general directorate of preventive medicine established in 2012 National NCD prevention and control strategy drafted Technical task force for NCD established Limited resources available, resource mobilization underway.

Main achievements Data on NCDs gathered and disseminated (AMS) Department of NCD prevention and control established World cancer day celebrated NCD incorporated in key documents Law banning use of tobacco in public places developed

Main challenges Lack of surveillance for NCD Lack of capacity among health care providers Lack of resources for control and prevention of NCD Low engagement and interest of donor agencies in NCDs

Main lessons learned NCD is a huge burden in the country There is need for capacity building at all levels to address the NCD Advocacy and behavior change are keys to success

Next steps Develop and finalize strategy, plan and guidelines for NCD prevention and control Development of NCD surveillance for the country Work on cancer registry Resource mobilization and coordination with stakeholders

…..and this is what we want (a healthy environment for afghans)