News

Our choices are individual but can be influenced – high-profile celebrities have the power to encourage healthy behaviours 27-06-2021
When an influencer or public figure is seen consuming or endorsing unhealthy products, such as foods and beverages high in salt, fats and sugars, this often has an immediate effect on their followers. It may influence their consumption, attitudes and preferences. Even a simple action by a high-profile celebrity can have a significant impact and cannot be underestimated.
WHO study points to interventions for improving cardiovascular health in Tajikistan 09-06-2021
A new WHO/Europe study reveals that improved blood-pressure control at the primary health-care level in Tajikistan can be achieved in 12 months using WHO tools. Elevated blood pressure is a condition directly linked to many cardiovascular diseases, which are prevalent in the country.
Promoting cycling can save lives and advance health across Europe through improved air quality and increased physical activity 03-06-2021
On World Bicycle Day, celebrated on 3 June, WHO highlights a new master plan that calls countries to acknowledge cycling as an equal mode of transport and to double the level of cycling by 2030.
WHO/Europe launches a new Russian-language podcast on the hottest health topics 25-05-2021
“The how of WHO” (“ВОЗ рекомендует” in Russian) is a new podcast from WHO/Europe. It is tailored specifically to the interests of Russian speakers across the broad and diverse WHO European Region. The aim of the podcast is to explain in simple terms where public health recommendations come from and what an individual can do to stay healthy.
High rates of childhood obesity alarming given anticipated impact of COVID-19 pandemic 11-05-2021
In some countries of the WHO European Region, 1 in 3 children aged 6 to 9 years is living with overweight or obesity. Mediterranean countries have the highest rates of obesity, but the situation there is starting to improve.
Women at the forefront of the COVID-19 response in Albania: “We will keep fighting until this virus is defeated” 09-03-2021
On International Women’s Day, 8 March, WHO/Europe recognizes the huge contribution made by female health workers to the COVID-19 response. As Dr Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, said in a recent statement, “The face of that frontline health worker we so often talk about is mostly the face of a woman.”
Less salt for a longer life – a doctor’s advice for a healthy diet 09-03-2021
Eating less salt saves lives, but many people in the WHO European Region find it difficult to change their diets. On the occasion of Salt Awareness Week 2021, WHO/Europe shares the experience of Dr Joana Ferreira, who is helping her patients in Portugal find healthier alternatives for processed or traditional foods to reduce their salt intake.
WHO/Europe looks ahead to a busy 2021 08-02-2021
Following an unprecedented year for WHO in 2020, WHO/Europe looks ahead to 2021 with a focus on the continuing COVID-19 pandemic alongside the implementation of the European Programme of Work.
New WHO report: population-based screening for cardiovascular disease risk factors does not reduce CVD mortality 19-01-2021
Population-level screening for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors has no effect on lowering CVD morbidity and mortality, concludes a recently published WHO Health Evidence Network (HEN) report. To reduce CVD risks, which are also associated with poorer COVID-19 outcomes, the report proposes some alternative measures for consideration by policy-makers in the WHO European Region.
Reaching Turkey’s health policy goals could avert thousands of deaths says research from WHO/Europe 19-01-2021
Approximately 20 000 deaths could have been averted in Turkey in 2017 if the country had reached its current goals of reducing tobacco and salt consumption by 30%, and physical inactivity by 10%, according to WHO/Europe experts in an article published in the Lancet. The study calculated possible outcomes of the action plan for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) adopted in the country for 2017–2025.
Uzbekistan is making healthy diets a cornerstone of national policy with the help of WHO 12-01-2021
Uzbekistan is taking important steps towards the prevention of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) with technical guidance and support from WHO. Recently, the country adopted a series of important measures that can significantly improve food safety and the quality of nutrition, reducing many health risk factors for the population.
WHO/Europe forms NCD Advisory Council to inspire and reform prevention and management of NCDs 14-12-2020
In response to the growing evidence that the combination of COVID-19 and noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) leads to more serious disease outcomes, including death, the WHO Regional Director for Europe has introduced an initiative to dramatically accelerate the response to NCDs and their risk factors across the WHO European Region.
Tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke linked to more than 20% of deaths from coronary heart disease 29-09-2020
A new report produced by WHO, the World Heart Federation and the University of Newcastle Australia for World Heart Day celebrated globally on 29 September, confirms a well-established causal link between tobacco smoking and morbidity and mortality related to coronary heart disease and urges all tobacco users to quit.
Focusing on noncommunicable diseases to “build back better” 18-09-2020
The focus on accountability of this year’s Global Week for Action on NCDs (noncommunicable diseases) follows a United Nations-wide call from Secretary-General António Guterres “to use the recovery to build back better” – a call to take advantage of the opportunities that COVID-19 has presented us. This is highly relevant in the area of NCDs, where WHO has recently produced several resources that show that the European Region stands ready and willing to #ActOnNCDs with governments, donors and partners.
Progress reports on health and sustainable development now available for Georgia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan 16-09-2020
WHO has launched 3 new sustainable development country progress reports for Georgia, Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, as part of the Global Action Plan for Healthy Lives and Well-being for All.
New country support package launched to accelerate salt reduction in the WHO European Region 24-07-2020
This week, WHO/Europe published a new package to support countries in the European Region to reduce salt consumption. The package outlines some of the most advanced guidance to date on salt reduction policies and surveillance.
New assessment shows Bulgaria’s commitment towards tackling noncommunicable diseases 14-07-2020
WHO has released the report “Better noncommunicable diseases outcomes: challenges and opportunities for health systems. Country assessment – Bulgaria (2020)”, providing an analysis of Bulgaria’s health systems response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and proposing practical recommendations to address the current challenges faced by the country.
Prevention and control of NCDs at core of COVID-19 response 17-06-2020
For people with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, diabetes or cancer, the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on their health, revealing how vulnerable they are. The Lancet recently published a paper highlighting the importance of NCDs and obesity-related conditions in the COVID-19 response.
Delivering NCD services in a time of COVID-19 – stories from the field 03-06-2020
A new WHO survey looks at the extent of the disruption of services for the prevention and treatment of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer and chronic respiratory diseases during the COVID-19 pandemic. To mark the survey’s preliminary results, a new series of stories from the WHO European Region shares experiences of health workers and patients in managing these conditions.
Turkey limits amount of industrially produced trans fats in foods 26-05-2020
Turkey recently announced regulations limiting the amount of industrially produced trans fats allowed in foods. As per WHO recommendations, the regulation requires that foods intended for the final consumer and for supply to retail contain no more than 2g of trans fats per 100g of fat. These measures are an important step towards the elimination of trans fats from the food supply, which will save thousands of lives per year.
Moldova: training primary health care professionals on the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases 20-05-2020
The first results of a multi-year feasibility study on improving the management of cardiovascular disease risk in the Republic of Moldova, published in the European Journal of Public Health, are promising.
New report reveals the role of physical activity in preventing and treating cardiovascular diseases 22-01-2020
The European Heart Network, in collaboration with the WHO European Office for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases, has published an important report on physical activity policies for cardiovascular health. Each year, cardiovascular diseases cause 3.9 million deaths in Europe and over 1.8 million deaths in the European Union. Physical inactivity increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases by more than 20%.
WHO launches Collaborating Centre on Cardiovascular Diseases, eHealth and Value-based Care in St Petersburg 30-10-2019
The Institute of Heart and Vessels of the Almazov National Medical Research Centre, based in St Petersburg, Russian Federation, has now joined the international community of more than 800 WHO collaborating centres.
Conference in Bosnia and Herzegovina showcases achievements of project to fight noncommunicable diseases 16-07-2019
At a conference recently held in Sarajevo, participating health-care institutions from Bosnia and Herzegovina had a chance to showcase the achievements of a project funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) and implemented from 2013 to 2019.
Major step towards control of noncommunicable diseases in the WHO European Region 04-07-2019
Dr Piroska Ӧstlin, Acting WHO Regional Director for Europe, and Mr Dmitry Kostennikov, Deputy Minister of Health of the Russian Federation, signed the Donor Agreement between WHO/Europe and the Russian Federation. The Agreement sets out the Russian Federation’s financial contribution for continued joint work to fight noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the Region.
Strengthening tobacco control in Slovenia to save lives 21-06-2019
Smoking is widespread in Slovenia, where almost one quarter (24%) of the adult population smokes. Moreover, many smokers start at a young age, with up to 18% of Slovenian teenagers reporting that they first began smoking at age 13 or younger. The high rates of smoking have serious health consequences for Slovenia’s citizens – it is projected that roughly half of the 427 000 current smokers will die prematurely from causes attributable to tobacco.
Member States urged to ramp up fight against noncommunicable diseases 12-04-2019
Governments in WHO Member States must implement existing policies and set ambitious goals at national level if they are to live up to their commitment to reduce premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the WHO European Region. That was the message from speakers and participants at the plenary session of the WHO European High-level Conference on Noncommunicable Diseases held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on 9–10 April 2019.
WHO urges stronger action to reduce deaths from noncommunicable diseases in Europe by one third 09-04-2019
WHO “best buys” – targeted policy interventions aimed at reducing the burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) – can be a game-changer for achieving target 3.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), through which governments have committed to reducing premature deaths from NCDs by one third by 2030. The interventions range from policies that promote physical activity and curb tobacco and alcohol consumption, to reducing salt and sugar and eliminating trans-fats in food. The actions countries can take to achieve the target will be in focus at the WHO European High-level Conference on Noncommunicable Diseases taking place in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, on 9–10 April 2019.
Noncommunicable diseases and air pollution 29-03-2019
Tackling air pollution is a key factor in reducing premature mortality. Indeed, air pollution was included as a fifth risk factor for NCDs at the United Nations High-level Meeting on NCDs in September 2018. Acknowledging this, a policy paper was prepared as a background document for the WHO European High-level Conference on NCDs in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan.
A multilevel governance approach to preventing and managing NCDs: the role of cities and urban settings 27-03-2019
More than half the world’s population lives in an urban setting, which means that city and municipal governments are well placed to intensify the battle against noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
Migrants and refugees at higher risk of developing ill health than host populations, reveals first-ever WHO report on the health of displaced people in Europe 21-01-2019
Migrants and refugees are likely to have good general health, but they can be at risk of falling sick in transition or while staying in receiving countries due to poor living conditions or adjustments in their lifestyle. This is the main conclusion of the first “Report on the health of refugees and migrants in the WHO European Region”, released by the WHO Regional Office for Europe today.
Study shows Moldovans consume double the recommended salt intake 22-11-2018
A new study reveals that Moldovans consume double the recommended 5 g of salt per day. The WHO study is the first research on salt intake to be conducted in the Republic of Moldova.
“No one had ever seen a cardiologist showing interest in ambulances or helicopters” 28-09-2018
Time is of the essence when someone has a heart attack. Denmark has achieved great success by looking beyond the operating table to ensure patients receive the best care as fast as possible.
Looking beyond hospitals to save lives 28-09-2018
Lowering the mortality of heart attacks starts outside of the hospital walls as experience from Denmark shows.
Heads of State commit to lead response to beat noncommunicable diseases, promote mental health 27-09-2018
Heads of state and government today committed to 13 new steps to tackle noncommunicable diseases including cancers, heart and lung diseases, stroke, and diabetes, and to promote mental health and well-being.
Ireland builds capacity to improve men’s health 12-09-2018
In 2008, the Irish Government released the National Men’s Health Policy 2008–2013, which included strategies for engaging men in self-care. Within this framework, the Government recently rolled out a new training programme called ENGAGE to improve the capacity of health providers and improve men’s access to and use of health services.
Tobacco breaks hearts – choose health, not tobacco 30-05-2018
Smokers are 2–4 times more likely than non-smokers to suffer coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular stroke, and even adults exposed to other people’s smoke have a 25–30% raised risk. On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day 2018, WHO is highlighting what can be done to reduce the risks to heart health posed by tobacco and how much difference it makes immediately if smokers choose to quit tobacco.
WHO/Europe develops new tool to support countries in achieving salt reduction targets 20-04-2018
WHO/Europe has developed a guide to dietary intake modelling that countries can use when designing national salt reduction strategies. The 5-step approach describes how countries can map dietary intake and food composition data to identify the most important food sources of salt in their population’s diet. Based on this, countries can develop appropriate targets for food product improvement that, if achieved, will contribute to meeting the global target of a 30% reduction in population salt intake.
Intervention package improves men’s health in Uzbekistan 20-04-2018
Two regions of Uzbekistan, Kashkadarya and Ferghana, have implemented an innovative package of interventions to prevent and control noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), with particular benefits for men at risk of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes.
Day 3 of high-level meeting Health Systems Respond to NCDs: opportunities and challenges for accelerated response 19-04-2018
The final day of the regional meeting in Sitges, Spain, opened with an interactive panel session on the opportunities and challenges of an accelerated health systems response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and of leapfrogging.
Day 2 of high-level meeting Health Systems Respond to NCDs: Learning from good examples and real-time problem solving in policy labs 18-04-2018
Day 2 of the high-level meeting Health Systems Respond to NCDs kicked off with participants diving directly into policy workshops covering 4 key topics: financing and incentive alignment, health workforce, governance and financing of intersectoral action, and medicines.
Day 1 of high-level meeting Health Systems Respond to NCDs: focus on equity and people centredness 17-04-2018
With its clear ambition to articulate the key elements of an aligned and comprehensive health systems response to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), the WHO high-level meeting Health Systems Respond to NCDs in Sitges, Spain, is paving the way to the United Nations High-level Meeting on NCDs in New York, United States of America, in September 2018.
Bringing health services closer to people in Kyrgyzstan 05-04-2018
Kyzylgul is a 57-year-old grandmother of 6. She lives in the place where she was born and grew up – Jyrgalan village, located in a mountainous area more than 450 kilometres from Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan.
Putting people’s health needs first – Spain makes strides towards patient-centred care 15-03-2018
The use of a population stratification tool has helped Spain develop health services that respond more accurately and comprehensively to the actual health needs of both groups and individuals.
Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan to conduct nationwide surveys to study NCD risk factors 30-01-2018
Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan are preparing to conduct nationwide STEPwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) surveys to study the prevalence and patterns of noncommunicable disease (NCD) risk factors in their populations.
Homegrown, low-cost innovation improves NCD treatment in Croatia 19-01-2018
An innovative electronic registering system allowing systematic recording and management of data on patients with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) has made health care in Croatia more efficient at a low cost.
Fortifying salt with iodine – a simple measure to prevent intellectual disability 20-12-2017
Russian bloggers, media representatives and policy-makers gathered at a WHO event in Moscow to hear experts and researchers explain how iodine deficiency in pregnancy affects development of the child’s brain.
New studies of street food in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan show alarming levels of trans fat and salt 08-11-2017
New research from WHO conducted in Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan has found that street food commonly sold in these countries contains high levels of salt and trans fat. Consuming excess salt and trans fat on a regular basis increases the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including coronary heart disease, hypertension and stroke.
Taking steps towards reducing trans fat and salt in Tajikistan 08-11-2017
A newly published WHO report on food found in and around the markets of Dushanbe, Tajikistan, reveals both positive and worrying results, and shows that the nutritional composition of the food and drinks on offer could be drastically improved.
Widely available foods may pose major health risk in Kyrgyzstan 08-11-2017
A new report from WHO shows that high levels of trans fat and sodium are frequently present in the most commonly available street food in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.
Using taxes to beat NCDs: success story in Hungary 17-10-2017
Use of taxation as a means to prevent NCDs and to finance national responses will be one of the topics for discussion at the Conference, among other proven interventions to address the growing burden of NCDs. An increasing number of countries in the WHO European Region have been adopting this approach, with excellent results.
Survey reveals high prevalence of NCD risk factors in Belarus 26-09-2017
In 2016, Belarus undertook its first nationwide, large-scale survey to study the prevalence of the main risk factors for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) among a representative sample of the population aged 18–69 years. Experts presented the results of the survey, known as STEPS 2016, on 29 August 2017.
Prevention and control of NCDs: a business case in Kyrgyzstan 21-09-2017
Almost 4% of Kyrgyzstan’s gross domestic product is lost due to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. These diseases and their risk factors are an increasing public health and development challenge. Cardiovascular diseases, for example, cause half of all deaths in the country.
Transforming primary care services in Kazakhstan 01-09-2017
Kazakhstan is on track to achieve the global target of a 25% reduction in premature mortality from NCDs by 2025. Currently, however, it has one of the highest rates of premature mortality in the WHO European Region. In 2013, the main causes of years of life lost due to premature death in Kazakhstan were ischaemic heart disease, cerebrovascular disease and self-harm. Dietary risks, high systolic blood pressure and high body mass index are the highest ranked risk factors for disease burden, measured in disability-adjusted life years.
Reducing premature deaths from NCDs by 45% − a bold vision discussed by NCD programme directors in Moscow 13-07-2017
More than 100 international experts on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) convened in Moscow, Russian Federation, on 8–9 June 2017. Together they discussed the feasibility of the WHO European Region exceeding the global target and reducing premature mortality from NCDs by 45% by 2030.
Public health advice as heatwave continues across southern and central Europe 13-07-2017
Excessively high temperatures are expected to continue in parts of central Europe, Balkan countries, Italy, Portugal and southern Spain. Such heat leads to increased concerns for the health and well-being of vulnerable groups such small children, the elderly and those who have chronic medical conditions.
New WHO Collaborating Centre for Physical Activity and Health 19-06-2017
WHO recently designated the University of Zurich (Switzerland) as the new WHO Collaborating Centre for Physical Activity and Health. The Physical Activity and Health Unit and other groups of the Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute (EBPI) will support the implementation of the Physical activity strategy for the WHO European Region 2016–2025.
Minister of Health of Montenegro visits WHO/Europe 08-06-2017
Dr Kenan Hrapović, Minister of Health of Montenegro, visited WHO/Europe on 6 June 2017 to discuss health priorities and collaboration with the Regional Office. In discussions with Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, the Minister outlined developments in the country, including the establishment of a national influenza centre and an accredited laboratory for measles and rubella surveillance; plans to extend the work of the pulmonary hospital to include diagnostic services for tuberculosis and cancer; and plans to set up a national reference library on antimicrobial resistance.
Can Europe exceed the global target and reduce premature mortality by 45%? 08-06-2017
WHO convenes a meeting of experts in Moscow to assess progress and opportunities in tackling cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases. Over the past decade, markedly fewer people have died prematurely in the WHO European Region. The decline is considerable, and illuminates a hope that Europe can exceed the bold target of Sustainable Development Goal 3.4 to reduce premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by 33% by 2030.
Inspiration tour to North Karelia: 45 successful years of reducing coronary heart disease mortality the community way 21-04-2017
In 1972, Finland had the highest rate of coronary heart disease (CHD) mortality in the world, and the region of North Karelia in eastern Finland had the highest rate in the country. To address this issue, the region initiated what is known as the North Karelia Project, a far-reaching, community-based intervention that aims to reduce CHD mortality by encouraging healthier habits and cutting down on risk factors such as high cholesterol intake and smoking.
Regional Director outlines links between WHO/Europe’s work to address NCDs and JA-CHRODIS 07-03-2017
Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe, addressed over 200 participants at the final conference of the European Union (EU) Joint Action on Chronic Diseases and Promoting Healthy Ageing across the Life-Cycle (JA-CHRODIS) on 28 February 2017.
New WHO/Europe report calls for urgent action to protect children from digital marketing of food 04-11-2016
For the first time, researchers and health experts have undertaken a comprehensive analysis of the concerning situation in the WHO European Region of digital marketing to children of foods high in fats, salt and sugars. The findings are published in a new report from the WHO Regional Office for Europe, Tackling food marketing to children in a digital world: trans-disciplinary perspectives, which calls for immediate action by policy-makers to recognize and address the growing issue of marketing targeted to children via digital media.
Rollout of the Essential training for primary health care workers on the integrated management of hypertension and diabetes in Ukraine 25-10-2016
The first training of trainers for the Essential training for primary health care workers on the integrated management of hypertension and diabetes took place in Kyiv, Ukraine on 17-19 October, 2016 followed by the first cascade trainings for one hundred primary health care (PHC) doctors and nurses on October 20-21.
New publication - The main indicators of the WHO Global Monitoring Framework (GMF) on Noncommunicable Diseases 2016 04-10-2016
We are pleased to present The main indicators of the WHO Global Monitoring Framework (GMF) on Noncommunicable Diseases 2016, which exemplifies the joint effort of WHO and its Member States to offer recently available, comparable and policy-relevant NCD information.
Public health successes and missed opportunities - new report on alcohol-attributable deaths 28-09-2016
For the first time, trends in alcohol consumption and related mortality have been examined systematically for all countries in the WHO European Region for an extended period. WHO/Europe’s new report “Public health successes and missed opportunities. Trends in alcohol consumption and attributable mortality in the WHO European Region, 1990–2014” shows that over the past 25 years alcohol-attributable deaths increased by 4%.
FEEDCities project – studying urban food environments 06-09-2016
FEEDCities is an ongoing multicountry study, which describes the urban food environments of cities in central Asia, the Caucasus and south-eastern Europe.
Building capacity to use data for monitoring NCD-related hospitalizations and strategic purchasing in Kyrgyzstan 07-07-2016
On 27 June 2016, a workshop on building capacity and using data to monitor the hospitalization rates of patients with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) was held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. About 60 participants attended including representatives of the Mandatory Health Insurance Fund (MHIF), the Ministry of Health, regional and tertiary-level hospitals, and the Health Policy Analysis Center (HPAC) and experts on NCDs.
Can a mobile phone help you stop smoking? 03-06-2016
Tara Duthie, who lives in the city of Stirling in Scotland, United Kingdom, tried to quit smoking four times in 5 years. Then, on 30 October 2015, aged just 49, she had a heart attack – it was a wake-up call she could not ignore.
World Health Day 2016: Living with diabetes and educating others 07-04-2016
"Take care of your health by exercising and watching your diet carefully," says Idriz Ethemi, who has lived with type 2 diabetes for over 10 years. The focus of World Health Day 2016 is "Beat diabetes". An estimated 64 million people in the WHO European Region live with the disease.
WHO calls for global action on diabetes 07-04-2016
The number of adults living with diabetes worldwide has almost quadrupled since 1980, to 422 million, according to the first WHO Global report on diabetes, released to coincide with World Health Day 2016. The report shows that the prevalence of diabetes has also risen in the WHO European Region since 1980, with an estimated 64 million people now living with the disease. The growing diabetes epidemic is strongly associated with increasing trends in overweight and obesity, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity and socioeconomic disadvantage.
WHO conference on cardiovascular diseases addresses difference in life expectancy between eastern and western Europe 30-11-2015
Cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes, comprise almost half of all deaths in the WHO European Region, and contribute significantly to the differences in life expectancy between eastern and western Europe. People born in eastern Europe are almost 5 times more likely to die young due to a heart attack or stroke than those born in western Europe.
Addressing the largest single cause of preventable deaths in Europe – cardiovascular disease 19-11-2015
People born in eastern Europe are almost five times more likely to die young due to a heart attack or stroke than those born in western Europe. Since 2000, this disparity in risk of premature death has significantly increased from a fourfold difference at the beginning of the century to the current nearly fivefold difference. These early and preventable deaths due to cardiovascular diseases are the greatest single contributor to the lower life expectancy in the east of Europe compared to the west.
Lithuania promotes physical activity and heart health in a collaborative community bicycle event 29-09-2015
On World Heart Day, 29 September 2015, WHO recommends increased physical activity and exercise to live longer in good health and to reduce mortality from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart conditions, obesity and diabetes.
Roadmap signposts the way to a tobacco-free generation 22-09-2015
Achieving a tobacco-free new generation came a few steps closer as the 53 Member States of the WHO European Region endorsed a roadmap of action to strengthen implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC).
Make physical activity part of all stages of life 21-09-2015
The 53 European Member States unanimously endorsed a physical activity strategy for the WHO European Region 2016–2025 at the 65th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Europe in Vilnius, Lithuania on 16 September 2015.
New WHO Collaborating Centre on Noncommunicable Diseases Research, Prevention and Control 13-04-2015
Clalit Research Institute was recently designated as a WHO Collaborating Center on Noncommunicable Diseases Research, Prevention and Control. The inaugural ceremony took place in Tel Aviv on 10 March 2015, on the occasion of the WHO Technical Meeting on Real-life complexities in NCD prevention and control hosted by Clalit.
Countries urged to set national targets and implement proven interventions to prevent premature deaths from noncommunicable diseases 19-01-2015
Every year, 16 million people die prematurely – before the age of 70 – of heart and lung diseases, a stroke, cancer or diabetes, according to the “Global Status Report on noncommunicable diseases 2014”, released by WHO today. The report states that most of these deaths are preventable and, with an investment of only US$1-3 dollars per person per year, countries can dramatically reduce illness and death from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs).
Plain tobacco packaging encourages more people to stop smoking and fewer to start 15-01-2015
Consumers perceive plain packaging as ugly and dull — it decreases the attractiveness of tobacco products and smoking, particularly to young people and women. A new evidence brief confirms the effectiveness of plain packaging measures in smoking prevention and cessation.
Reducing salt consumption 26-09-2014
No Member State in the WHO European Region meets the recommended adult daily salt intake of less than 5 g/day. Finland and the United Kingdom have introduced effective salt reduction programmes, as part of efforts to reduce raised blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases.
Europe leads the world in eliminating trans fats 18-09-2014
Consumption of trans fats is strongly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, and has been linked to several types of cancer. A growing number of countries in the WHO European Region have recognized that taking action to eliminate trans fats may bring significant health gains, and new data indicate that such action is highly effective in reducing trans-fat consumption among the population.
Country profiles on noncommunicable diseases published 15-07-2014
WHO has published profiles on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) for all Member States, including the 53 countries in the WHO European Region. Where data are available, the profiles estimate for each country the current burden of and recent trends in NCD mortality, the prevalence of selected major risk factors and the national health system’s capacity to respond. They update the profiles produced in 2011.
World Health Assembly, day 4: proposals on coordination of noncommunicable disease response 26-05-2014
The World Health Assembly approved proposals to improve global coordination of efforts to address noncommunicable diseases like diabetes, cancers, heart disease and stroke. It also approved a resolution to improve the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of viral hepatitis.
New publication: European child health services and systems 14-05-2014
The recently published "European child health services and systems. Lessons without borders" takes a purposefully child-centric view, and aims to improve understanding of children's health services across Europe.
Alcohol consumption in Europe decreasing but still the highest in the world 12-05-2014
People in the WHO European Region drink almost twice the world average amount of alcohol, the latest WHO figures show. According to a new report, Global status report on alcohol and health 2014, consumption in Europe fell by 10%, from 12.2 L pure alcohol per capita in 2003–2005 to 10.9 L in 2008–2010. Nevertheless, Europe still has the highest alcohol consumption in the world. In response, some Member States are implementing effective policy measures identified by WHO, such as restricting access to retailed alcohol, raising taxes on alcohol and enforcing bans on alcohol advertising.
Smoke-free: 2014 Men's World Ice Hockey Championships in Minsk 30-04-2014
The city of Minsk, Belarus, will be the host of the next Men's World Ice Hockey Championships on 9-25 May. The agreement to make the Championships smoke-free was achieved during the meeting of Mr Mikhail Myasnikovich, Prime Minister of the Republic of Belarus with Ms Zsuzsanna Jakab, Regional Director, WHO Regional Office for Europe, in November 2013.
10 years of smoke-free Ireland 25-04-2014
10 years ago, on the 24th of March 2004, Ireland introduced a ban on smoking in all workplaces as the first country in the world.
Almost 600 000 deaths due to air pollution in Europe: new WHO global report 25-03-2014
Exposure to air pollution accounted for 7 million deaths worldwide in 2012, including almost 600 000 in the WHO European Region. This is the main finding of a new WHO report, released today, on the burden of disease related to ambient (outdoor) and household (indoor) air pollution. Specifically, 482 000 deaths are attributable to ambient air pollution and 117 200 deaths to household air pollution in the WHO European Region. While deaths from ambient air pollution occur in all European countries regardless of their income, those from household air pollution are over 5 times greater in low- and middle-income countries than wealthier ones.
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD): European population-based action plan for early diagnosis 18-03-2014
Lack of support for people with vascular diseases, including peripheral arterial diseases (PAD), may expose them to dramatic health care costs due to acute, even fatal, cardiovascular events. In response to this WHO and Vascular Independent Research and Education European Organisation (VAS) have recently organized a joint session on “Burden and Equity in Vascular Diseases” (during the 10th European Angiology Days) to promote awareness and prevention of the condition.
Q&A – How can I drink alcohol safely? 10-02-2014
There is no safe level for drinking alcohol. The ideal situation is to not drink at all. Dr Lars Møller, Programme Manager, Alcohol and Illicit Drugs at WHO/Europe, dispels some misconceptions about the so-called safe level of drinking in a question and answer (Q&A) session.
Ashgabat Declaration signed: day 2 of Ashgabat conference on noncommunicable diseases 04-12-2013
Member States in the WHO European Region committed to the Ashgabat Declaration, “a landmark that will go down in the history of public health in Europe,” said Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe.
Aspiring to a tobacco-free future in Europe 04-12-2013
Encouraged by the benefits of reduced tobacco consumption, the 53 Member States in the WHO European Region pledged to accelerate their efforts to fully implement the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC) by signing the Ashgabat Declaration during the WHO Ministerial Conference on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in the Context of Health 2020, held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on 3–4 December 2013.
Tobacco-free Europe achievable: day 1 of Ashgabat conference on noncommunicable diseases 03-12-2013
Participants from across the WHO European Region explained the measures they are taking to combat noncommunicable diseases and expressed widespread commitment to making the Region tobacco free.
Tackling cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes in 53 countries: health ministers meet in Ashgabat,Turkmenistan 02-12-2013
Tobacco and alcohol use, obesity and physical inactivity are among the principal causes of death in the WHO European Region. Despite progress in tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), more needs to be done, so WHO is bringing together 35 European Member States at the WHO European Ministerial Conference on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases in the Context of Health 2020, to be held in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan on 3–4 December to find opportunities for regional action and cooperation.
Gastein meeting - Increasing capacity for the prevention and control of NCDs 24-09-2013
This meeting in Bad Gastein, Austria 2-3 October 2013, will focus on the current status of noncommunicable disease (NCD) action in eastern Europe and central Asia, and to discuss plans for the future.
How hot weather affects health 10-07-2013
Heat can trigger exhaustion, confusion and even heart attacks, as well as worsen existing conditions, such as cardiovascular and respiratory diseases. The harmful effects of hot weather are largely preventable.
Lax marketing regulations contribute to obesity crisis in children 18-06-2013
WHO calls for tighter controls on the marketing to children of foods high in saturated and trans fats, free sugars and salt, in order to fight childhood obesity. Tightening restrictions on marketing is central to this fight, according to a new report from WHO/Europe: “Marketing of foods high in fat, salt and sugar to children”.
Over 10 million people affected by hypertension in Poland 31-05-2013
Hypertension affects more than 10 million people in Poland. Due to the growing epidemic of obesity and an ageing population, this number will increase to 15 million in 2035, according to Dr Krzysztof Chlebus, Undersecretary of State in the Polish Ministry of Health.
Cyprus holds awareness campaign on hypertension 27-05-2013
Public awareness activities in rural primary health care centers and public hospitals all over Cyprus were part of a national campaign to sensitize citizens about hypertension on the occasion of World Health Day.
Azerbaijan observes World Health Day through public awareness campaign 21-05-2013
A series of public awareness activities, including free blood pressure measurement camps, marked World Health Day in Azerbaijan. The Public Health and Reforms Centre (PHRC) organized the camp in the Baku Park Boulevard Center with technical and financial support of the WHO Country Office.
Uzbekistan dedicates a week to hypertension prevention 02-05-2013
Free medical tests for measuring blood pressure and calculating body mass index (BMI), followed with counseling if necessary, were part of a week dedicated to raise awareness about hypertension prevention in Uzbekistan. The Ministry of Health organized the week to observe World Health Day, which this year focuses on high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
Tajikistan runs big health check-up campaign for World Health Day 02-05-2013
About 500 000 people benefited from free medical consultations and basic check-ups with health advice during the World Health Day campaign in Tajikistan. Many were for the first time diagnosed with health issues and referred to further specialized medical care.
Croatia celebrates World Health Day with week-long activities 01-05-2013
A week full of health promotion activities marked World Health Day 2013 in Croatia. The activities organized in Zagreb, Rijeka, Osijek, Split and other cities focused on high blood pressure, the theme for World Health Day this year.
Georgia holds events to raise awareness about hypertension 01-05-2013
A number of activities were organized during the first week of April as part of a national information and communication campaign in Georgia on the occasion of World Health Day. The theme for World Health Day in 2013 is high blood pressure, also known as raised blood pressure or hypertension.
Hungary celebrates World Health Day 30-04-2013
Hungary celebrated the World Health Day, which this year focuses on high blood pressure, also known as raised blood pressure or hypertension.
Republic of Moldova focuses on hypertension, awards public health leaders 30-04-2013
A half-day round table discussion on prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) was one of the many events organized in the Republic of Moldova to observe World Health Day.
Slovenia celebrates progress in preventing cardiovascular diseases 30-04-2013
The number of deaths from all types of cardiovascular diseases in Slovenia has halved in the last 20 years, from 447 deaths per 100 000 people in 1991 to 218 in 2010. The National Institute of Public Health reports that since 2002, the number of deaths from these diseases had reduced by about 1200 persons annually. Experts attribute about 600 saved lives to successful prevention programmes.
Kyrgyzstan organizes information campaign on hypertension 24-04-2013
Kyrgyzstan observed World Health Day by organizing free measurement of blood pressure in big supermarkets and shopping malls around the country. The theme for World Health Day in 2013 is high blood pressure, also known as raised blood pressure or hypertension.
WHO/Europe in Copenhagen moving to new premises 05-04-2013
WHO/Europe’s head office, based in Copenhagen, Denmark, is moving to new premises during 22 March to 1 April 2013. All United Nations organizations in the Danish capital will come together in new premises known as UN City.
World Health Day 2013 – Reducing salt intake is key to reducing high blood pressure and stroke 04-04-2013
Reducing salt intake is one of the easiest ways to reduce high blood pressure and therefore the risks of stroke, and cardiac and kidney disease. Reducing salt intake to less than 5 g per day (the equivalent of about 1 teaspoon) reduces the risk of stroke by 23% and reduces the general rates of cardiovascular disease by 17%. The daily intake of most people in the WHO European Region is about 8–11 g, far above the recommended level.
High blood pressure: serious but often preventable 02-04-2013
High blood pressure – the focus of World Health Day 2013 – is a serious but often preventable medical condition. Diseases of the circulatory system account for nearly 50% of all deaths in the WHO European Region.
Estonian food manufacturers look to reduce salt in processed foods 07-03-2013
WHO/Europe and the Estonian National Health Development Institute held a joint workshop on 8 February 2013 on how to reduce salt and other selected nutrients in processed foods. Bringing together Estonian food manufacturers and public health experts from Estonia, Latvia and Montenegro, the workshop highlighted the importance of salt reduction for public health and the need for further collaboration in this area.
How cold weather affects health 15-02-2013
Severe cold weather spells are common across the WHO European Region. They increase mortality and pose a high health risk to many, particularly vulnerable groups. Knowing the risks and the measures needed to prepare for and respond to cold weather can help prevent its health effects.
New report assesses national capacity for the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases 04-02-2013
The report analyzes the survey results in the areas of NCD infrastructure, policies, surveillance and health system capacity. Offering a global overview, some results are also provided in a regional breakdown.
Key WHO/Europe events in 2013 15-01-2013
Following the adoption of Health 2020, the European policy for health and well-being, in September 2012 and building on past resolutions and collaborative work, WHO/Europe plans many activities, campaigns and events in 2013.
Initiative to reduce salt in food kicks off in Montenegro 14-01-2013
The WHO Country Office, Montenegro and the Ministry of Health, the Institute for Public Health and the national food council of Montenegro have launched a joint initiative to combat the prevalence of chronic noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) caused by an overconsumption of salt in the diet. The initiative, introduced on 17 December 2012, was developed in response to evidence of the link between excessive salt intake and life-threatening NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases.
Focus on hypertension for World Health Day 2013 08-01-2013
The theme for World Health Day in 2013 is hypertension.
Monitoring framework agreed to assess progress on NCDs 12-11-2012
After three days of discussion last week, WHO Member States agreed on a global monitoring framework to prevent and control noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and chronic lung conditions.
More evidence on linkages between NCDs and SRH in Entre Nous 24-10-2012
The 75th issue of Entre Nous explores the many parallels between noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and sexual and reproductive health (SRH) in terms of vulnerabilities and risks for and as a result of ill health, such as, poverty, inequity, social determinants of health and socio-cultural factors. This issue covers guidance in the implementation of the new European policy for health “Health 2020”.
Report on WHO/Europe’s work in 2010–2011 out now 23-10-2012
In a report on her first two years as WHO Regional Director for Europe, “What we’ve achieved together”, Zsuzsanna Jakab describes the work of WHO/Europe with Member States.
Depression in Europe 10-10-2012
Depression is treatable, but about 50% of major depressions still go untreated. WHO encourages people who think they may be suffering from depression to seek advice, and reminds doctors to remain vigilant for symptoms. 10 October is World Mental Health Day.
Key findings of consultation on monitoring noncommunicable diseases released 18-09-2012
As part of the development of a comprehensive global monitoring framework for noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), WHO/Europe held a web-based consultation to determine European Member States’ capacity to monitor the proposed voluntary targets and global indicators.
Tajikistan develops strategy to tackle nutrition, diet and related noncommunicable diseases 12-09-2012
In Tajikistan, like in the majority of countries in the Region, nutrition-related health problems and foodborne diseases represent a considerable public health burden. Undernutrition is still a serious but least addressed health problem.
Working across sectors - NCD policy academy in Lithuania 06-09-2012
From 24-26 September 2012, an international training seminar in Lithuania will equip health policy decision makers to bring prevention of NCDs into policies in all relevant government sectors.
New hands-on approach to policy-making: Ukraine develops national plan at WHO/Europe 20-08-2012
Representatives from the Ukrainian Ministry of Health spent four productive days in early August at WHO/Europe working with noncommunicable diseases (NCD) programme managers to develop a draft national NCD action plan.
The tobacco industry’s unhealthy influence 31-05-2012
This year, World No Tobacco Day – 31 May – focuses on how the tobacco industry undermines the fight against the tobacco epidemic, and what can be done to stop it, including implementing WHO’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.
World Health Assembly, day 2: resolution on noncommunicable diseases approved 24-05-2012
A resolution on strengthening noncommunicable disease policies to promote active ageing was approved by countries on the second day of WHO’s global annual meeting.
World health statistics 2012 report: increase of hypertension and diabetes 22-05-2012
The World health statistics 2012 report, released on 16 May 2012, highlights the growing problem of noncommunicable diseases.
Empowering patients 17-04-2012
From passive recipient to co-producer of health care – health systems must involve chronically ill people as equal partners in their treatment to be effective. The First European Conference on Patient Empowerment was held in Copenhagen, Denmark on 11–12 April 2012. Read more …
Deaths from tobacco in Europe 11-04-2012
Before the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control came into force in 2005, 16% of all deaths in adults aged over 30 years in the WHO European Region were due to tobacco. Read more…
Instrument to map management of noncommunicable diseases in primary care under development 08-02-2012
WHO/Europe is developing a new framework instrument to assess how effectively noncommunicable diseases are managed in primary care, in collaboration with the Netherlands Institute for Health Services Research.
WHO/Europe responds to call for development of NCD targets and indicators 06-02-2012
A Regional Technical Consultation on Noncommunicable Disease (NCD) Surveillance, Monitoring and Evaluation will take place in Oslo 9-10 February 2012.
Hungarian smoking ban expected to cut the number of people treated in hospital or dying from heart attack and coronary illnesses by 10-15% within a year 16-01-2012
The strong nationwide smoke-free law covering public spaces (including workplaces, clubs and restaurants) came into force from 1 January 2012. It will fine an instant health care penalty upon the perpetrator of up to HUF 30 000HUF (EUR 100).
Strengthening the contribution of primary care in prevention and control of NCDs 11-01-2012
A regional WHO meeting in Amsterdam on 25-26 January 2012 aims to assist Member States and organizations in their efforts to implement the primary care actions and interventions described in the Action Plan for implementation of the European Strategy for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) 2012–2016, with a focus on cardio-metabolic risk assessment.
Reducing cancer: international community moves from resolution to action 18-11-2011
The Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) and its partners, including WHO, have developed a resolution that specifies measurable steps to reduce preventable deaths from cancer.
Diabetes epidemic in Europe 11-11-2011
Lifestyle choices are putting more people at risk of developing type 2 diabetes. World Diabetes Day 2011 focuses on prevention.
No tobacco at EURO 2012 20-10-2011
The 14th Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) European Football Championship (EURO 2012) will be totally tobacco free. UEFA’s decision to ban tobacco from the world’s third largest sporting event sends a strong message to football fans everywhere, reaffirming the link between football and good health.
New WHO/Europe centre on noncommunicable diseases opens in Athens 23-09-2011
At a ceremony today in Athens, Greece, a new centre on noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) was opened by Andreas Loverdos, Minister of Health and Social Solidarity of Greece, and Zsuzsanna Jakab, WHO Regional Director for Europe.
Noncommunicable diseases top of world’s agenda 19-09-2011
Today and tomorrow (19–20 September 2011), high-level representatives of the 193 countries in the United Nations are meeting in New York, United States of America, to discuss the worldwide epidemic of noncommunicable diseases.
Noncommunicable diseases country profiles 2011 - WHO global report 14-09-2011
The report features information about the noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) situation in 193 countries. This includes details of what proportion of each country's deaths is due to diseases such as cancer, heart and lung diseases, and diabetes.
Changing risky behaviour key to tackling noncommunicable diseases 02-06-2011
The policy action needed at national and cross-national level to address the epidemic of noncommunicable diseases was again on the agenda as experts met in Budapest, Hungary, on 30-31 May 2011 at the ‘Action for Prevention’ Conference of the Hungarian Presidency of the European Union.
Tobacco-control legislation: already saving lives 30-05-2011
The evidence shows that tobacco legislation is working. Confounding its early critics, it is already saving lives and improving health across the WHO European Region. Studies from countries that enforce bans on smoking in public places are finding reductions in heart attacks. Exposure to tobacco smoke contributes to cardiovascular diseases, cancer and tuberculosis, and the scientific literature indicates that, just a few months after the implementation of smoke-free laws, the hospitalization rates for myocardial infarctions decrease by 20–40%.
New evidence from WHO on health effects of traffic-related noise in Europe 30-03-2011
Traffic-related noise accounts for over 1 million healthy years of life lost annually to ill health, disability or early death in the western countries in the WHO European Region. This is the main conclusion of the first report assessing the burden of disease from environmental noise in Europe, released today by WHO/Europe. Noise causes or contributes to not only annoyance and sleep disturbance but also heart attacks, learning disabilities and tinnitus.
Countries contribute to action plan for noncommunicable diseases 24-03-2011
Representatives of 36 countries in the WHO European Region met in Copenhagen on 17–18 March 2011 to set a five-year course for effective action to tackle noncommunicable diseases.
European countries take up the Health 2020 challenge 10-03-2011
In Andorra, the first meeting of the European Health Policy Forum of High-level Government Officials opened on 9 March 2011, to launch a two-year process that will shape Health 2020, the new European policy for health.
Low control for high cholesterol - most people with high cholesterol levels are not getting the treatment they need to reduce their risk of heart attack and stroke 02-02-2011
The largest ever study – representing 147 million people – shows that most people with high cholesterol levels are not getting the treatment they need to reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease such as heart attack and stroke.
World Heart Day 01-10-2010
Employers and employees can do much to ensure good health at work. World Heart Day 2010 focuses on promoting wellness at the workplace.