During the 2024–2025 biennium, Cuba substantially strengthened its comprehensive response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) through the expansion of the HEARTS initiative and the update of the National Strategic Plan for NCDs. Implementation of HEARTS was reinforced, contributing to the prevention of cardiovascular events associated with ischemic heart disease and stroke, as well as to the reduction of diabetes‑related complications and the progression of chronic kidney disease.
In parallel, the updated strategic plan incorporated the social determinants of health and Health in All Policies approaches, prioritizing six national programs including the National Mental Health Plan and Program, with an emphasis on suicide prevention and the early detection of neurodevelopmental disorders and autism.

These advances were made possible through sustained technical support from PAHO, which provided support for strategic planning and operational implementation. Within HEARTS, technical cooperation included the facilitation of workshops, guidance on quality improvement approaches, systematic follow‑up of results, and the training of trainers to enable replication at the subnational level. Regarding the update of the National Strategic Plan for NCDs and the mental health component, PAHO facilitated national consultation processes, provided technical advice for protocol review, and supported the organization of mental health service responses in emergency settings.

This achievement contributes to reducing avoidable mortality associated with NCDs, improving the quality and continuity of care, and optimizing the use of health system resources. It also strengthens national capacities for a comprehensive, intersectoral, and sustainable approach to NCDs and mental health, with medium‑ and long‑term impacts on health system performance.

Photo caption: A HEARTS workshop in Cuba, April 2025