World leaders have adopted a landmark political declaration aimed at tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) – such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung diseases – alongside mental health challenges, in what experts are calling a pivotal moment for global health. The agreement, reached at the Eightieth United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and stemming from the fourth high-level meeting on NCDs held in September 2025, represents the first time these interconnected health crises have been addressed with a unified, global strategy. This commitment to combating NCDs and mental health is particularly crucial given their escalating impact worldwide.
The declaration, titled “Equity and integration: transforming lives and livelihoods through leadership and action on noncommunicable diseases and the promotion of mental health and well-being,” establishes ambitious, measurable targets for 2030. Currently, NCDs claim 18 million lives prematurely each year, while over a billion people globally live with mental health conditions. These conditions are often fueled by shared risk factors – unhealthy diets, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, and air pollution – creating a complex web of interconnected health concerns. The urgency of the situation is underscored by the fact that both NCDs and mental health conditions are on the rise in every country, impacting communities and hindering sustainable economic growth.
A New Era of Measurable Goals
The declaration moves beyond previous commitments by setting three “fast-track” global outcome targets to be achieved by the end of the decade. These include a reduction of 150 million tobacco users, bringing 150 million more people with hypertension under control, and expanding access to mental health care for an additional 150 million individuals. These headline goals are supported by a series of process targets designed to strengthen national health systems. By 2030, the declaration calls for at least 80% of countries to have implemented comprehensive policy, legislative, and fiscal measures addressing NCDs and mental health.
Further bolstering these efforts, the declaration aims for 80% of primary health care facilities to have access to affordable, World Health Organization (WHO)-recommended essential medicines and technologies. Financial protection is also a key component, with a goal of 60% of countries implementing policies to cover or limit the costs of essential NCD and mental health services. Operational, multisectoral national plans, and robust surveillance and monitoring systems are also prioritized, with targets of 80% adoption for both.
Expanding the Scope of Global Health Priorities
This political declaration is notable for its comprehensive scope, integrating lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic and addressing emerging global health challenges. Beyond the traditionally focused areas, the declaration now encompasses oral health, lung health, childhood cancer, liver disease, kidney disease, and rare diseases. It also recognizes the growing impact of environmental determinants, including air pollution, clean cooking solutions, lead exposure, and hazardous chemicals. Perhaps most strikingly, the declaration acknowledges the evolving risks posed by digital harms, such as excessive screen time, harmful content online, and the spread of health misinformation.
The agreement signals a stronger regulatory approach to issues like e-cigarettes, novel tobacco products, and the marketing of unhealthy foods to children. It also emphasizes the importance of front-of-pack labeling and the elimination of trans fats. Underlying these commitments is a strong emphasis on equity, ensuring that the needs of vulnerable populations – including those living with NCDs and mental health conditions, climate-vulnerable communities, and those in humanitarian settings – are prioritized.
Financing and Collaboration: A “Whole-of-Society” Approach
Recognizing the financial constraints facing many nations, the declaration stresses the demand for adequate, predictable, and sustained funding. This includes increased domestic investment, strengthened international partnerships, and coordinated multilateral frameworks. The declaration firmly positions NCDs and mental health not simply as health concerns, but as fundamental pillars for achieving sustainable development and social justice. Success, it argues, requires a “whole-of-government” and “whole-of-society” approach, actively engaging civil society, partners, youth, persons with disabilities, and individuals with lived experience.
“The adoption of these bold targets to control noncommunicable diseases and promote mental health is a testament to the commitment of Member States to protect the health of their people,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “Together, we can change the trajectory of NCDs and mental health, and deliver health, well-being and opportunity for all.”
Accountability and the Path Forward
This declaration builds upon three previous declarations and establishes a framework for accountability. The UN Secretary-General will report on progress toward these targets by 2030, ahead of the next High-Level Meeting. The WHO, alongside other UN agencies, will support member states in translating these commitments into concrete national action, ensuring ongoing accountability and sustained impact. The next key checkpoint for assessing progress will be the report to the UN Secretary-General in 2030.
This historic agreement represents a significant step toward a healthier, more equitable, and prosperous future. Continued collaboration, sustained investment, and a commitment to accountability will be essential to realizing the ambitious goals set forth in this landmark declaration.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. We see essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
