Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention Framework: Policy Framework for the Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases and the Promotion of Wellbeing

The Office of the Superintendence of Public Health within the Ministry for Health and Active Ageing is pleased to announce the release of a consultation document on Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention Framework: Policy Framework for the Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases and the Promotion of Wellbeing. 

Non-Communicable Diseases are long-term diseases that are not passed from person to person. They are primarily driven by modifiable lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and the harmful use of alcohol. Environmental factors, genetics, and socio-economic conditions also play significant roles in the prevalence and severity of NCDs.

This document aims to prevent Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), which include heart disease, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, obesity and diabetes, among others. These diseases are responsible for most deaths worldwide, affecting individuals across all demographics and socio-economic backgrounds.

The consultation document outlines key enablers for combating NCDs, including:

• Governance and accountability;
• Data into action;
• Addressing the determinants of health and health inequities;
• Re-orienting Health Systems for prevention;
• Health Literacy; and
• Emergency preparedness.

Priority areas highlighted in the document include:

• Reduce tobacco use;
• Reduce the use of alcohol;
• Reduce overweight and obesity;
• Improve access to a healthy diet;
• Increase physical activity, and reduce physical inactivity and sedentary time;
• Early diagnosis;
• Promote mental health and wellbeing; and

• Promote environmental health.

https://health.gov.mt/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/Non-Communicable-Diseases_Prevention_Framework_2024_Public_Consultation_Document.pdf