WHAT IS PLANETARY HEALTH?
The leading cause of death and disability across the globe each year, NCDs are rising along with the prevalence of risk factors worsened by anthropogenic changes.
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a leading cause of global mortality, responsible for approximately 41 million deaths annually, equivalent to 74% of all global deaths, making their prevention and management critical public health priorities. Global environmental changes including climate change, biodiversity loss, freshwater depletion, deforestation, overfishing, ocean acidification, soil degradation, etc. increase the prevalence and severity of NCDs.
Air pollution, primarily from fossil fuel combustion, is a significant driver of global morbidity and mortality. The Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019 estimates that air pollution contributes to around one in six deaths annually worldwide. Long-term exposure to air pollution, especially in urban and densely populated areas, is linked to reduced lung function, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Climate change affects health through various direct and indirect mechanisms. Rising temperatures and more frequent extreme weather events—such as cyclones, floods, and storms—exacerbate health risks for individuals with chronic diseases. A systematic review of 48 studies from developed countries found that individuals with cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases faced increased risks of health complications following such disasters.
Increased heat exposure due to climate change is also associated with higher mortality rates, more emergency department visits, and increased hospital admissions for cardiovascular, respiratory, and kidney-related conditions. Additionally, climate change affects NCD risk through pathways linked to food and nutrition, further compounding the public health challenge.
Noncommunicable Diseases Climate Change
• Research & Reports
Noncommunicable Diseases Chemical Pollution
Researchers compared marine microplastic concentrations near U.S. coastlines with rates of cardiometabolic diseases in nearby counties. Using national survey and environmental data, they explored whether higher microplastic levels relate to higher disease prevalence.
• Research & Reports
Noncommunicable Diseases Air Pollution
This review provides an overview of how air pollution promotes the development of atherosclerosis (the build up of fats and cholesterol in and on the artery walls).
• Research & Reports
Noncommunicable Diseases Air Pollution
The review examines how environmental factors, particularly pollutants and natural compounds, influence vascular physiology, inflammation, and the development of atherosclerosis (the build up of fats and cholesterol in artery walls) and cardiovascular disease.
• Research & Reports
Mental Health Noncommunicable Diseases
Health and Global Policy Institute submitted joint recommendations to the Zero Draft of the UN Political Declaration on Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and Mental Health.
• News
