Accelerating Non-Communicable Diseases Control in Bhutan: optimism and challenges

Non communicable diseases (NCDs) including cardiovascular disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory disease, are all public health concerns in Bhutan1. NCDs contribute to more than 56% of deaths and 21% of premature mortality2. The burden of type II diabetes doubled between 2009 and 20143, newly diagnosed cancers4 and hospital admissions related to stroke are reported to be on the rise5. Urbanization and motorized transport has increased sedentary behaviors; nearly half of the Bhutanese are not achieving healthful physical activity. The pervasive consumption of excess salt reflects in a third of adults having elevated bloodpressure6. Tobacco and alcohol use – common risk factors for NCDs are highly prevalent1. Sitting on an impending NCD epidemic, the nation’s developmental progress can be impeded if timely actions are not taken.