At the recent 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), global leaders made a big move to tackle noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental health. They adopted a new political declaration intended to provide an integrated approach to these pressing health challenges. This decision, made before the high-level meeting on September 25, 2025, represents a vital step forward in public health.
The declaration, called “Equity and Integration: Transforming Lives and Livelihoods Through Leadership and Action on Noncommunicable Diseases and the Promotion of Mental Health and Well-being,” is unique because it addresses both NCDs and mental health together for the first time. With clear targets set for 2030, this effort aims fundamentally to improve health for everyone, regardless of their age or income.
NCDs, which include conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancers, lead to about 18 million premature deaths each year. Mental health issues affect over a billion people globally. These two areas are interrelated, as lifestyles and environmental factors like poor diets, tobacco use, and air pollution can contribute to both types of health challenges. Addressing these interconnected issues is crucial not just for personal well-being, but also for improving national productivity and economic sustainability.
New Targets for Change
The new declaration introduces three groundbreaking global targets to reach by 2030:
- Reduce tobacco users by 150 million.
- Increase the number of people with controlled hypertension by 150 million.
- Boost access to mental health care for an additional 150 million people.
These ambitious goals are backed by strict process targets for countries, such as:
- Ensuring at least 80% of countries have necessary policies and regulations.
- Providing affordable medicines in 80% of primary health care facilities.
- Implementing financial protections for essential health services in 60% of countries.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the WHO Director-General, emphasized the importance of these commitments, noting, “Together, we can change the trajectory of NCDs and mental health, and deliver health and well-being for all.”
A Comprehensive Approach
This declaration stands out because it learns from past global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic. It broadens the focus to include additional areas like oral and lung health, and it acknowledges new risks from digital technology, such as the impact of social media and misinformation.
The declaration also pays attention to equity, making sure the voices of marginalized communities and those living with NCDs and mental health conditions are heard. Issues like air pollution and unhealthy marketing practices are now part of the discussion as well.
Funding and Collaboration
With the global economy under pressure, the declaration stresses the need for reliable funding. Countries must find ways to fund health initiatives sustainably. This requires collaboration between governments, NGOs, and communities, making health a shared responsibility.
Lastly, the declaration calls for accountability to ensure progress is measured. The UN Secretary-General will report on advancements toward the targets by 2030, and WHO will assist nations in turning these commitments into actions.
Conclusion
By connecting the dots between physical and mental health, the UNGA’s declaration marks a new chapter in global health. Strategies are in place to create real change, but success will depend on the commitment of all countries to work together. The goal is clear: a healthier, more equitable world for everyone.
For more details on NCDs and public health initiatives, you can visit the World Health Organization website.
