The report, "Going digital for noncommunicable diseases: the case for action", is the result of a collaborative effort of the United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force (UNIATF) on the Prevention and Control of NCDs, the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) with support from RHC. It highlights the critical role of digital health in combating noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and calls for urgent global action to harness these tools. Released during the 79th United Nations General Assembly, the report underscores how digital health interventions can transform healthcare delivery and save millions of lives over the next decade.
The report reveals that an investment of just US$0.24 per patient per year in digital health technologies—such as telemedicine, mobile messaging, and chatbots—could save over 2 million lives from NCDs and avert 7 million acute events and hospitalizations. These interventions have the potential to significantly reduce the burden on global healthcare systems while addressing the root causes of preventable deaths.
NCDs, which include cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions, account for over 74% of global deaths annually. Many of these deaths are preventable by addressing key lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diets, harmful alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity. Digital tools can empower individuals to better understand and manage their health by providing real-time information and support. Technologies like mobile apps, chatbots, and telemedicine can guide people in adopting healthier habits and ensure they receive ongoing care and monitoring.
Despite the clear benefits, integrating digital health into mainstream healthcare systems remains a challenge. While over 60% of countries have developed digital health strategies, the lack of infrastructure, standards, and interoperability continues to be a major obstacle. The report calls for governments to invest in digital public infrastructure and foster greater collaboration between the health and tech sectors.
This report serves as a blueprint for action, complementing WHO's Global Initiative on Digital Health and the Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020-2025. RHC will continue supporting the ongoing collaboration by UNIATF, WHO, and ITU in leveraging digital health solutions in countries to prevent and control NCDs and mental health conditions effectively.
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