Institute of Medicine President Fineberg Discusses US Imperative for NCDs

[Jeff Meer]

On February 2, 2011, Dr. Harvey Fineberg, President of the Institute of Medicine (IOM), spoke at the Center for Strategic and International Studies on the subject of non communicable diseases (NCDs) and global health.  In his talk, Dr. Fineberg noted that today, approximately 80 percent of the mortality associated with non NCDs (cardiovascular disease, lung disease, cancers, and diabetes) occur in less developed nations.  Dr. Fineberg noted that NCDs are incredibly expensive.  He cited the example that for China, India and Russia, the cost of just three NCDs -- heart disease, stroke, and diabetes -- during 2005-2015 is estimated at between $200 -- $550 billion.  He said that preventive strategies are especially helpful, and sometimes it is true that one preventive strategy (e.g. anti-tobacco efforts) can simultaneously prevent two or more NCDs (cancer and cardiovascular disease).  Fineberg stated that "it is in the vital self interest of hte United States to be active in reducing NCDs."  He noted that advances made in NCD prevention and treatment "anywhere" can be applied "everywhere."  Here is a link to see video from Dr. Fineberg's speech.

 

In March 2010, IOM released an important study concerning improving cardiovascular health in the developing world.

 

In September 2011, the United Nations will convene a day-and-a-half High Level Session on NCDs, during the General Assembly meetings in New York.