Integration of NCD care in emergency response and preparedness

Overview

The WHO South-East Asia (SEA) Region is often referred to as “vulnerable”, “prone” and “high-risk” for earthquakes, cyclones, epidemics or social conflict. This Region is among the most densely populated regions in the world with haphazard and unplanned urbanization, and overcrowding and poor housing, thus maintaining a precarious balance between risk and protection. Traditionally, health emergency response has largely been seen within the prism of prevention of communicable diseases. Due to increasing burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in these countries, there is growing realization that these emergencies also impact life of people living with NCDs. Lack of appropriate care during emergencies results in long-term morbidity and disability associated with NCDs.