During the biennium, substantial progress was made in the national response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), combining policy strengthening, improvements in clinical care, and the modernization of prevention strategies. The implementation of the HEARTS initiative was consolidated in seven provinces, contributing to the improvement of PHC-based management of NCDs. 

PAHO technical cooperation supported the establishment of robust methodological frameworks for the evidence-based updating of dietary guidelines, strengthening transparency, and the quality of public policies. In the area of care delivery, support for the expansion of the HEARTS initiative consolidated standardized clinical protocols, strengthened primary health care capacity, and improved the use of digital tools for cardiovascular risk management. As a result, HEARTS implementation grew by 283% during the biennium, reaching 422 health facilities in 12 provinces and benefiting 1.2 million people, with improvements in early detection, clinical follow-up, and continuity of care. These actions contribute to more timely and effective care for noncommunicable diseases, with a direct impact on reducing complications and premature mortality.

PAHO also supported the development of innovative communication strategies to prevent the use of electronic cigarettes among adolescents, with evidence-based messages, digital formats, and reusable tools developed in collaboration with national partners.

In the area of mental health, community-based services were expanded, reaching more than 1.5 million people, and over 2,000 first-level health workers were trained through the Mental Health Gap Action Programme (mhGAP), strengthening an integrated community-based response.

Taken together, these advances—aligned with the regional initiative Better Care for Noncommunicable Diseases—strengthen the health system’s comprehensive response to chronic conditions across the life course and create conditions to improve population health outcomes in the medium and long term. 

Caption: Activities promoting healthy aging and the prevention of frailty in older people with diabetes.

Credit: PAHO Argentina