Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
September 18, 2025 Healthcare
Estonia has achieved a significant reduction premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) – cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and others. It was among the top ten countries in the WHO European Region to achieve the 2025 target of reducing NCD mortality by 25 percent. With limited resources, the country demonstrated that consistent policies and intersectoral collaboration can yield results.
Tobacco and alcohol
Since 2014, a national strategy has been in effect, including strict bans on flavored tobacco, remote sales, and tobacco advertising. These measures have reduced smoking rates. However, new problems have emerged, such as nicotine products for youth.
The authorities increased excise taxes on alcohol and restricted advertising and sales. Alcohol consumption declined, but increased again after taxes were relaxed in 2019. Excise taxes will be increased again starting in 2024.
Fighting obesity
IN fight against obesity Progress has been more modest: free school meals, physical activity programs, and "fruit initiatives" have only partially curbed the rise in obesity. Attempts to impose a tax on sugary drinks have failed, and instead, agreements are being reached with manufacturers to reduce sugar and salt content. However, as former Health Minister Riina Sikkut notes, "self-regulation is ineffective: about 70 percent of advertising directed at children violates agreements."
Primary health care
A strong primary care system with no co-pays has become key to reducing cardiovascular mortality. Treatment guidelines and affordable medications (such as statins) ensure equal access to therapy. In the future, there are plans to include dietitians in family physician teams.
The situation in the world
On September 18, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a new report, "Saving Lives, Spending Less," which found that an additional investment of just three dollars per person annually in tackling noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) could generate economic benefits of up to one trillion dollars by 2030.
At the same time, WHO published a new analysis of countries' progress in reducing NCD mortality between 2010 and 2019. While 82 percent of countries achieved reductions during this period, the rate of progress slowed significantly in most regions, and in some countries, NCD mortality rates have begun to rise again.
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NCDs remain the leading cause of death in the world, with over a billion people living with mental health disorders. Particularly alarming is that nearly 75 percent of deaths related to NCDs and mental health occur in low- and middle-income countries, where 32 million people die from these causes annually.
In just a few days – on September 25, 2025 – heads of state and government will gather in New York for the Fourth High-Level Meeting of the UN General Assembly on the Prevention and Control of NCDs and Promoting Mental Health and Well-being. The goal of the meeting is to adopt an ambitious Political Declaration that will accelerate global action and investment in these key areas of health and development.
“Noncommunicable diseases and mental health conditions are silent killers […],” said WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus. “We have the tools to save lives and alleviate suffering. Countries like Denmark, the Republic of Korea, and Moldova are leading the way, while others are lagging behind. Investing in the fight against NCDs is not only sound economics, but also essential for societal prosperity.”
Lessons from Estonia
Experts from the WHO Regional Office for Europe are urging other countries in the region to take a closer look at Estonia's experience. Specifically, they are focusing on strengthening cooperation between various ministries and agencies, aligning national and European policies, taking into account political realities and engaging with public opinion, as well as relying on scientific data and ensuring transparency in this process.
Estonia faces many challenges along the way, but continues to implement effective measures. The country's experience shows that even a small country can achieve significant success in the fight against NCDs and serve as a role model for others.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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