Primary Health Care (PHC) teams lead the fight against Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), responsible for 33% of annual global deaths, especially in low and middle-income countries. They prioritize preventive care and community partnerships, enhancing health literacy and self-care. Within these teams, Family Doctors address social determinants of health, manage complex chronic conditions, and promote safe medicine use. By delivering face-to-face and telehealth visits, they ensure continuity of care, advancing Universal Health Coverage and contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals.
WONCA calls on governments and health organizations to:
1. Promote Preventive Care, focusing on early detection and management of NCDs through screenings and community measures. PHC teams should lead efforts to address major risk factors and manage complexity and polypharmacy safely.
2. Strengthen and invest in PHC systems, including training and supporting Family Doctors to lead teams in NCD prevention and management.