Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), commonly known as chronic or lifestyle-related diseases, are diseases that are not infectious to others. NCDs tend to be of long duration and are the result of a combination of genetic, physiological, environmental and behavioural factors. The main NCDs are cardiovascular diseases (like heart attacks and stroke), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases (such as chronic obstructed pulmonary disease and asthma), and diabetes. NCDs are the world’s biggest killers and a leading cause of death in the Region. Other NCDs include: hypertension, Alzheimer's and osteoporosis.

Source: Noncommunicable diseases, WHO.