Non-communicable diseases

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), or chronic diseases, tend to be of long duration and result from a combination of genetic,physiological, environmental and behavioural factors. The main types are cardiovascular diseases (such as heart attacks andstrokes), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases (such as obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma), diabetes, and mental andneurological conditions (such as dementia).151 Persons with disabilities are sometimes at higher risk of NCDs because, for example, they may be less mobile, live in overprotectiveenvironments, or eat unbalanced diets.

According to WHO, to manage NCDs during emergencies, it is necessary to:

  1. Treat acute complications that require special attention in emergency settings, and introduce additional arrangements including a referral mechanism.
  2. Continue ongoing treatment (by means of medicines, technologies or appliances).
  3. Make adjustments to accommodate declines in ability to cope.
  4. Coordinate care provision and follow-up across a range of providers and settings.