Self-care, is the ability of individuals, families, and communities to manage their health with or without support from health workers. It includes everyday actions like oral hygiene and sun protection, as well as managing chronic conditions with tools like glucose monitors. Despite its vital role, self-care remains under recognized in health systems. As NCDs rise, we urge Member States to enshrine self-care in the 2025 political declaration on NCDs and mental health by:

1)Affirming it as a core strategy for NCD prevention and UHC
2) Recognizing its role in preventing, managing, and reducing NCDs; and
3) Highlighting its power to empower individuals, improve outcomes, and ease pressure on health systems.

Self-care must be treated not as a luxury, but as a necessity — a right for all people.