Similar to other regions in the world, the burden of non-communicable diseases (NCD), which cause ill-health, disability and premature deaths, is expected to increase further in Hong Kong due to an expanding and ageing population. Recognising the significant health, social and economic impacts on our population if the problem of NCD is left uncontrolled, the Government is committed to fighting against NCD on all fronts and alleviating its burden.
In 2018, the Government launched the "Towards 2025: Strategy and Action Plan to Prevent and Control Non-communicable Diseases in Hong Kong" (SAP). Aligned with the World Health Organization (WHO)'s guidance, the SAP sets out the strategic directions for actions and encompasses nine local targets with a view to reducing the local NCD burden by 2025. The SAP guides multi-level and cross-sectoral actions targeting on four major NCDs (namely cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes) and four key behavioural risk factors (namely unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful use of alcohol) that are potentially preventable or modifiable and have significant impact on population health, as well as strengthening health care system and treatment to decrease overall risk of premature NCD mortality.
Apart from providing an overview of the progress made on specific targets thus far and showcasing the actions taken by the Department of Health and other government bureaux and departments in driving these efforts, this presentation will also identify existing obstacles on current progress of the SAP. While the Government plays a leading role in taking the agenda forward, successful prevention and control of NCD relies on collaborative efforts by various important multisectoral stakeholders including non-governmental organisations, private sectors, community and individuals. We also call for continuous support from all healthcare professionals and providers to braving the waves and driving progress towards 2025 SAP targets.
