Chronic Disease

Mortality due to disease is declining, in spite of relative growth in key diseases.

Chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes, are by far the leading cause of mortality in the world, representing 60% of all deaths. Out of the 35 million people who died from chronic disease in 2005, half were under 70 and half were women.

This invisible epidemic is an under-appreciated cause of poverty and hinders the economic development of many countries. Contrary to common perception, 80% of chronic disease deaths occur in low and middle income countries.

The major risk factors for chronic disease are an unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, and tobacco use

Without action, 17 million people will die prematurely this year from a chronic disease

One billion adults are overweight - without action, this figure will surpass 1.5 billion by 2015.

22 million children under five years old are overweight

If the major risk factors for chronic disease were eliminated, at least 80% of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes would be prevented; and 40% of cancer would be prevented.

Face to face with chronic disease

7 minute video tackling some of the misunderstandings surrounding chronic disease. These misunderstandings must be dispelled. Hear patients from different countries telling their stories.

Facts and figures on chronic diseases by country

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