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. NCDs Are the Main Barrier to Healthy Aging
NC . NCDs Are the Main Barrier to Healthy Aging
NCDs cause 71% of all global deaths each year, with 15 million being premature (ages 30–70)
Risk of chronic disease limitin…
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Four disease groups (CVD, cancer, diabetes type II, respiratory diseases) account for 77% of disease burden and 86% of premature mortality.
2. Major Lifestyle Risk Factors That Limit Longevity
a) Tobacco Use
Smoking is one of the strongest sources of premature mortality, leading to over 20 types of cancer, CVD, and respiratory illness
Risk of chronic disease limitin…
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Each year 7 million deaths are caused by direct tobacco use and 1.2 million by second-hand smoke.
Smoking habits are shaped by genetic, environmental, and family influences, and early smoking increases addiction risk.
b) Unhealthy Diet
Poor diet (excessive food intake, processed foods, low fruit/vegetables) combined with low physical activity leads to obesity, a major risk factor for chronic disease.
Diet-related factors caused 11 million global deaths in 2017, mainly from CVD, type II diabetes, and cancer
Risk of chronic disease limitin…
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c) Alcohol Consumption
Excess alcohol increases risks of liver disease, cancer, and mental health issues.
Alcohol-related harm is disproportionately higher in socially deprived populations (“alcohol harm paradox”)
Risk of chronic disease limitin…
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d) Psychosocial and Socioeconomic Determinants
Low socioeconomic status, childhood adversity, and living in deprived neighborhoods correlate with higher NCD prevalence and lower life expectancy.
Social inequalities strongly shape health outcomes throughout the life course.
3. Multimorbidity Is Increasing
Many individuals develop multiple chronic conditions at middle age, accelerating decline and shortening lifespan
Risk of chronic disease limitin…
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4. Public Health Implications
NCDs demand comprehensive strategies, not just individual interventions.
The paper emphasizes the importance of:
Preventive lifestyle changes (diet, activity, smoking cessation)
Socioeconomic policies addressing inequality
Considering the exposome—environmental and lifelong exposures—as a factor in aging.
5. Core Message
Healthy aging is not solely biologically determined; it is shaped by lifelong lifestyle behaviours and social conditions. By targeting risk factors—especially smoking, diet, alcohol, and inequality—societies can greatly improve longevity and reduce chronic disease burden.... |