On 21 May 2026, the International Federation on Ageing delivered a joint constituency statement on the follow-up to the Political Declaration on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) at the 79th session of the World Health Assembly.

We urge WHO and Member States to ensure that implementation of the Political Declaration on the prevention and control of NCDs reflects global population ageing.

Healthy ageing must be embedded within NCD strategies and governance, including through age-disaggregated data and targets, and stronger alignment between NCD policies and person-centred long-term care, dementia, gender, disability, and social protection systems to ensure continuity of care.

A critical consideration is how outcomes are defined. Framing “premature mortality” as deaths before age 70 risks implying that lives beyond this age are a lesser priority. WHO and Member States should re-examine targets and data systems to reflect the contribution of older persons and reduce NCD-related deaths and disability across all ages.

Primary care services, from prevention to rehabilitation and palliative care, must be strengthened across the life course. Adult immunization, support for brain and mental health, routine screening, and early intervention for conditions such as cardiovascular and eye diseases are essential to maintaining function, preventing complications, and supporting independence and well-being.

Health workforce strategies must adapt through geriatric competencies, multidisciplinary care, and investment in the care economy.

Finally, sustained financing is essential. Investment in NCD prevention and community-based care should be recognized as a driver of health and economic resilience. The Declaration’s success will depend on aligning policy and investment, with civil society meaningfully engaged in implementation.

a joint statement BY: