#WHA79: LIVE It Takes a Village: An Integrated and Intersectoral Response to NCDs & Mental Health

Why It Matters

Consolidating political commitments into integrated, community-driven implementation could curb the growing economic and operational strain NCDs and mental health place on health systems and populations, accelerating progress toward 2030 targets. Meaningful involvement of people with lived experience and cross-sector leadership are presented as essential levers to improve equity, access and outcomes.

Summary

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros and global health leaders at WHA79 urged faster, integrated action on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health, noting these conditions account for 80% of global deaths and seven of the top 10 causes of death. They argued current responses are fragmented across diseases, sectors and care levels and called for multisectoral leadership, stronger primary health care, and meaningful engagement of communities and people with lived experience. Speakers highlighted the 2025 UN political declaration’s concrete targets on tobacco, hypertension and mental health as a mandate to move from commitments to implementation. The session emphasized practical, people-centered delivery—co-designed services, financial protection, and cross-sectoral policies—to prevent disease, reduce morbidity and strengthen resilient health systems.

Original Description

#WHA79: LIVE It takes a village: an integrated and intersectoral response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health