Question to the Department for International Development:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what steps they are taking to assist countries that receive United Kingdom development support in addressing non-communicable diseases.

In countries in which DFID provides health assistance, we aim to improve the provision of basic health services for the poorest so that these countries are better able to address a broad range of health problems including non-communicable diseases (NCDs). We do this through strengthening health systems, improving health worker capacity and increasing access to essential medicines and equipment. With this focus on strengthening health services, developing countries will be better equipped to address a broad range of health problems including non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

We are also supporting specific efforts in developing countries to reduce the prevalence of NCDs, for example:

• Hepatitis B immunisation that prevents liver cancer (through support for the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisations (GAVI);
• Work on the Safe Cookstoves which will have an impact on the prevalence of NCDs;
• Research on cardiovascular and mental health issues.