Investing in Noncommunicable Disease Control Measures: Taking the Case of Hypertension and (Type-2) Diabetes Mellitus

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including hypertension diseases and diabetes mellitus, are responsible for 74% of deaths globally, with a significant portion occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). For example, in Indonesia, NCDs account for a substantial burden on the healthcare system and the economy. The United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force (UNIATF) has been instrumental in conducting investment cases to assess the economic impact of NCDs and the benefits of implementing evidence-based interventions.

Effective hypertension and diabetes mellitus care requires a sustainable continuum that spans prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment, and long-term adherence. Ensuring continuity across these stages is critical to improving health outcomes and reducing the overall burden of disease. However, many health systems face challenges in maintaining this continuum—particularly in resource-limited settings—due to gaps in follow-up, patient retention, and long-term care. Addressing these challenges demands integrated, people-centered approaches that prioritize consistency, affordability, and accessibility across the entire course of care.

The 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and the High Level Meeting on NCD 2025 present a critical platform for global leaders to take decisive action in addressing the growing burden of NCDs worldwide. Strengthening community-based interventions and sustainable financing is essential to advancing equitable NCDs prevention and management, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where health disparities remain significant.

This discussion will focus on sustaining investment in NCDs prevention and control through integrated, people-centred approaches that ensure continuity of care. It will examine policies, financing, and innovations that strengthen health systems and close gaps in service delivery.

Confirmed speakers:

  1. Diah S. Saminarsih – Founder and Chief Executive Officer at CISDI (Opening Remarks)
  2. Hellen McGuire – Global Lead, Noncommunicable Diseases at PATH
  3. Kimberly Green – Global Director, Primary Health Care at PATH
  4. Lucía Feito Allonca – Our View, Our Voices Global Advisor at NCD Alliance
  5. Yurdhina Meilissa – Chief Strategist & Act.Chief of PHC at CISDI