Enhancing digital health initiatives could help prevent millions of deaths from noncommunicable diseases

Investing an additional $0.24 per patient per year in digital health interventions—such as telemedicine, mobile messaging, and chatbots—could save over 2 million lives from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the next decade, according to a new report from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). This investment could also prevent around 7 million acute incidents and hospitalizations, significantly easing the burden on global healthcare systems.

The report, titled “Going Digital for Noncommunicable Diseases: The Case for Action,” was launched during an event hosted by the Government of The Gambia at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, in collaboration with ITU and WHO.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the importance of resources and collaboration: “The future of health is digital. To realize this vision, we must work together—governments, partners, and donors must invest strategically to ensure these life-saving innovations reach those who need them most.”

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin highlighted the potential of the digital revolution: “Universal meaningful connectivity is a priority for us, as digital technology can drive improvements in health and education. We call for stronger collaboration between health and tech sectors to build robust digital infrastructure that benefits everyone.”

NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, account for over 74% of global deaths each year, many of which are preventable. Despite progress in tackling these diseases, integrating digital health technologies into healthcare systems remains a challenge. The report underscores the urgent need to leverage these technologies to enhance effective interventions and alleviate the growing pressures on healthcare systems.

Four key lifestyle factors—tobacco use, unhealthy diets, excessive alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity—contribute to NCD risks, such as high blood pressure and obesity. Digital tools, like mobile messaging and chatbots, can help individuals identify and modify these risk factors while promoting healthier habits.

For those living with NCDs, regular monitoring and long-term care are essential. Digital solutions, including telemedicine, can help overcome barriers to accessing healthcare, while real-time data can support healthcare professionals in making informed decisions.

Although more than 60% of countries have developed digital health strategies, the integration of new technologies into existing healthcare systems often falls short. The report advocates for investments in digital public infrastructure and the promotion of interoperability standards to unlock the full potential of digital health.

Serving as a blueprint for action, this report complements WHO’s Global Initiative on Digital Health and the Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020-2025. The United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force on NCDs (UNIATF), in collaboration with WHO and ITU, is committed to providing tailored support to governments for strategic planning and advocacy.

Editor’s Note:

In Senegal, the “mRamadan” campaign—a part of the Be He@lthy, Be Mobile program—uses mobile technology to offer diabetes prevention advice during Ramadan, engaging over 200,000 users. In Zambia, the Be He@lthy, Be Mobile initiative connects remote patients with healthcare professionals via telemedicine, improving NCD management. Kyrgyzstan’s “Digital Kyrgyzstan 2019-2023” initiative has advanced its digital health infrastructure, leading to significant efficiencies during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the development of a digital vaccination certificate register.

About the UN NCD Task Force:

The United Nations Interagency Task Force on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases was established in 2013 to support Member States in addressing NCDs. It unites over 46 UN agencies, the World Bank, and regional development banks to promote a comprehensive approach to tackling NCDs and mental health conditions.