Scaling up action on the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases in the WHO Eastern Mediterranean Region (Editorial).

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading causes of death worldwide. They are responsible for approximately 68% of global mortality each year, with cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases being the four main NCD killers. It is estimated that annually, 16 million people die prematurely (before the age of 70) as a result of NCD. The majority of NCD deaths (74%) occur in low- and middle-income countries, where this public health crisis is especially challenging due to severe social and economic conditions already faced.