Follow-up to the political declaration of the third high-level meeting of the General Assembly on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases

WORLD MEDICAL ASSOCIATION
ASSOCIATION MEDICALE MONDIALE
ASOCIACION MEDICA MUNDIAL
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WHO Executive Board 156th
session
February 2025
Pillar 1:One billion more people benefiting from universal health coverage
Follow-up to the political declaration of the third high-level meeting of the
General Assembly on the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases
(item 7)
Honourable Chair, Distinguished Delegates,
The World Medical Association underscores the urgent need to address non-communicable
diseases (NCDs) through robust health systems and a well-supported health workforce.
NCDs, driven by social and commercial determinants, demand targeted investments in
Universal Health Coverage, including prevention, primary care, access to essential medicines,
and evidence-based policies grounded in equity and sustainability.
As we approach the Fourth High-level Meeting of the United Nations, we stress that
investment in well-trained, professionally educated, adequately equipped health and safe-
guarded workforce is vital to achieving the global NCD agenda. Without it, diagnosis,
treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation efforts cannot succeed. A transformative political
declaration must prioritise a qualified health workforce investment as a cornerstone of
resilient, equitable health systems.
Thank you