The threat posed by noncommunicable diseases to public health worldwide is far greater than had been previously estimated, the World Health Organization (WHO) has said.
WHO Director General Dr Margaret Chan says the growing prevalence of obesity is a warning signal that bigger health problems could be on the way.
Speaking in Geneva on Monday, Dr Chan said public health long geared towards the prevention and control of infectious diseases, needs to pay greater attention to chronic noncommunicable diseases.
Dr Chan said failure by governments to adequately finance and implement workable policies in public health is a major cause of socio inequality. She said this has the potential to undermine national security and even topple governments.
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