9 Views |
Global and Thai NCDs Situation
According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2022, NCDs are responsible for 41 million deaths annually, accounting for 74% of all global deaths.
In Thailand, the situation is just as alarming: over 400,000 people die from NCDs every year, representing 81% of all deaths nationwide.
What Are NCDs?
NCDs, or Non-Communicable Diseases, are long-term illnesses that cannot be spread from person to person. Instead, they develop due to unhealthy lifestyle habits over time.
The major NCDs responsible for the highest death toll include:
- Cardiovascular disease
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Chronic respiratory diseases
Key Risk Factors for NCDs
Most NCDs are rooted in daily habits that seem harmless but gradually increase health risks over time. The critical point is:
These behaviors are within your control — and with awareness, they can be changed to prevent future illness.
Examples of risk behaviors to watch out for:
- Regular alcohol consumption
- Smoking
- High sugar intake (e.g., sodas, bubble tea)
- Physical inactivity or sedentary lifestyle
- Frequent exposure to air pollution (e.g., PM2.5 particles)
How to Prevent NCDs — Start Today
- Quit or reduce smoking and alcohol
- Cut down on sugar, fat, salt, and processed foods
- Stay hydrated with plain water; avoid sugary drinks
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day
- Get enough sleep and manage stress
- Have annual health check-ups
Good health isn’t out of reach.
NCDs are diseases we unknowingly create —
but with the right actions, they’re diseases we can stop.
Start caring for your health today — for a better tomorrow.
