Myth #1: NCDs are diseases of affluence

In reality, NCDs are drivers of, and result from poverty. Around
80% of global deaths from NCDs occur in the worlds’ poorest
nations. While these are also the most populous countries in
the world, NCDs selectively burden lower-socioeconomic
groups, even in high-income nations, such as Australia.

Myth #2: NCDs mainly affect older people

More than 50% of the global burden of NCDs falls on people younger
than 70 years. So, while the diseases are associated with ageing, the
global burden is not simply an outcome of ageing populations.

Myth #3: NCDs are diseases of laziness and are self-inflicted

Many argue that NCDs occur as a result of poor choices by

individuals and parents, and should therefore not be the
responsibility of government or society

Myth #4: NCDs are too difficult and expensive to tackle

effectively

In reality, we have cost-effective strategies available now

for stopping the rise of NCDs. These strategies are
estimated to be able to prevent 80% of global heart
disease and diabetes. Medications for high blood pressure
are effective and cost a mere few cents per day

Myth #5: NCDs represent a health crisis for future generations

NCDs are often seen as a problem society will face in coming

decades, when, in fact, the global community is already in the
midst of a chronic disease epidemic, and their mitigation is
something we cannot afford to postpone.