NCDs
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are a group of conditions that have a health impact for a long period of time, and often progress slowly. They are the main cause of death and disability in the world, and create a need for long-term treatment and care. They include conditions like cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease, diabetes, and mental illness.
Unfortunately, the disease burden of NCDs is growing worldwide. Globally, NCDs are expected to increase by 17% in the next 10 years, and by 27% in Africa. In addition to the health impact, NCDs also present a development challenge. The duration and cost of treatment can reduce productivity or force people into poverty. According to the WHO, more than 17 million people before the age of 70 die each year of NCDs. Of those, 86% live in low- and middle- income countries.
IDA has prioritised approving generic sources of essential NCD products, such as glucose test strips for diabetes, doxorubicin for cancer treatment, and atenolol for cardiovascular diseases.
NCDconnect
Recognising the access gap in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) health products, IDA Foundation introduced NCDconnect in December 2023.
Developed in collaboration with our technical expert partner Solvoz, NCDconnect is a comprehensive, partnership-driven solution encompassing a digital procurement platform designed to address NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases.
NCDconnect uses consolidated demand market mechanisms to improve the affordability and accessibility of high-quality NCD medicines, medical supplies, and diagnostics in LMICs. Through an innovative country-focused disease approach, healthcare organisations (public & private), ministries of health, and central medical stores can efficiently access a curated selection of NCD medicines, medical supplies, and diagnostics, fostering collaboration across the healthcare ecosystem. IDA closes the gap between buyers and suppliers, minimising distributor markets to ensure affordability at patient level.
For more information on NCD-related activities, updates, and news, please follow NCDconnect on LinkedIn.
If the major risk factors for noncommunicable diseases were eliminated, about three-quarters of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes would be prevented and 40% of cancers would be prevented.