The indicator quantifies the probability and trends of premature non-communicable disease (NCD) mortality. NCDs account for the highest proportion of deaths in a majority of countries in the Region. It is therefore of great importance that the Region intensifies efforts to monitor the progress of policies, programs, and interventions that are intended to reduce premature mortality due to NCDs. To reach the 2025 target of 11.70% for the unconditional probability of dying between ages 30 and 70 years from cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, or chronic respiratory diseases, an annual rate of change of -2.5% is required. The current rate of change is -1.4%, indicating that the Region is not likely to reach its 2025 target. 

Despite calls for accelerated policies, programs, and interventions, progress has been impeded, mainly due to disruptions in health services associated with COVID-19, as well as recurring challenges. Many of these have been noted in the results report section on adopting integrated approaches to NCDs in health systems. Notable progress has been made in tobacco control, nutrition policies, cardiovascular diseases, and hypertension. However, more efforts are needed to tackle metabolic syndrome, diabetes, obesity, and insufficient physical activity. 

Recommendations 

• Implement policies and interventions related to social and commercial determinants of health and ensure access to quality healthcare. 

• Align national efforts with PASB’s inter-programmatic initiative on Better Care for NCDs, which aims to reduce premature mortality by enhancing early detection, diagnosis, and equitable care for patients with NCDs. 

• Strengthen health information systems, surveillance, and monitoring to improve evidence-based decision-making for NCDs. 

• Increase the level of priority, funding allocations, and availability of human resources to training for managing NCDs. 

• Incorporate the recommendations of the PAHO Director’s Strategic Advisory Group that focuses on NCDs and their risk factors.