Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) do not spread from person to person through infection or other contagious means.
Unlike infectious diseases like the flu or COVID-19, NCDs are not caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, or fungi. Instead, they typically arise from a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental, and behavioral factors. These factors contribute to the development of chronic conditions that are not transmissible.
Here's a breakdown:
- Lack of Infection: NCDs don't involve an infectious agent.
- Genetic Predisposition: Some people are genetically more susceptible to certain NCDs.
- Lifestyle Factors: Unhealthy behaviors are a major driver:
- Tobacco use: Increases risk of cancer, heart disease, respiratory diseases.
- Unhealthy diet: Contributes to obesity, diabetes, heart disease.
- Physical inactivity: Increases risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, some cancers.
- Harmful use of alcohol: Increases risk of liver disease, cancer, heart disease.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to pollutants can contribute to NCD development.
- Metabolic/Physiological Risk Factors: These include:
- Raised blood pressure: Increases risk of heart disease and stroke
- Raised blood sugar: Increases risk of diabetes
- Raised blood cholesterol: Increases risk of heart disease
- Overweight and obesity: Increases the risk of several NCDs
Examples of NCDs:
| Disease | Contributing Factors |
|---|---|
| Cardiovascular diseases | Unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, alcohol abuse, high blood pressure |
| Cancers | Tobacco use, unhealthy diet, environmental exposures, genetic factors |
| Chronic respiratory diseases | Tobacco use, air pollution |
| Diabetes | Unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, genetics |
NCDs are a significant global health concern, representing a major cause of death and disability worldwide. Addressing NCDs requires a multi-faceted approach focusing on prevention through promoting healthy lifestyles, early detection and treatment, and creating supportive environments.
