KATHMANDU, AUGUST 7

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular conditions, chronic respiratory illnesses, and cancers, are on the rise in Nepal, experts have warned.

Dr. Manita Pyakurel of the Nepal Non-Communicable Disease Alliance stated that the prevalence of NCDs is steadily increasing across the country. Among the major NCDs, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory conditions, and cancers are reported to be the most widespread, she shared.

According to Dr. Pyakurel, heart diseases account for approximately 30 percent of the total NCD burden, while chronic respiratory diseases represent 10 percent, and cancers 9 percent.

In 2010, NCDs were responsible for nearly 51 percent of all deaths in Nepal. This figure rose to 60 percent in 2014, surged to 66 percent by 2016, and further climbed to 71.1 percent in 2019, as reported by the Global Burden of Disease study.

The report also highlights that the cost of treating NCDs is increasing at an unsustainable rate in Nepal, placing a heavy financial burden on individuals and the healthcare system.

Globally, non-communicable diseases are responsible for approximately 4.3 million deaths each year.