Chronic disease is a global challenge - Dr Khalid Al-Saleh
Chronic or non-communicable diseases - namely cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory illnesses and diabetes - are among the leading causes of death globally. These conditions, which develop over long periods, are responsible for over 60 percent of all deaths worldwide, claiming approximately 36 million lives annually, including nearly a quarter of victims under the age of 60.
Recognizing the gravity of this threat, world leaders convened in New York in September 2011 and adopted a political declaration to address the growing burden of chronic diseases. The World Health Organization followed with a global action plan for 2013–2020. However, by the end of the decade, it became evident that most countries had not fulfilled their commitments. In response, the global community adopted the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in 2015, aiming for completion by 2030 - a target that now also appears at risk.
Each country's response reflects its regard for the health and dignity of its people. Some nations have demonstrated earnest dedication, allocating resources and mobilizing efforts to implement international recommendations. Others have made partial progress, while some have produced plans on paper with little action on the ground. A few remain indifferent, disengaged from the collective responsibility to address this global crisis.
A critical question
The Gulf plan to combat chronic diseases was unveiled in Kuwait during the GCC Health Ministers' meeting in January 2014. That moment presented a promising opportunity for GCC nations to align with global health advancements. Unfortunately, the region, including Kuwait, has missed several opportunities to demonstrate a firm commitment to public health. Kuwait has established the Higher Committee for Chronic Diseases and maintains an active Chronic Diseases Department, along with the IMAN Network, which plays a vital role in surveillance, monitoring and evaluation - key pillars of the international framework.
Despite these efforts, challenges persist. Financial backing for chronic disease initiatives remains insufficient. The implementation of recommendations often lacks the necessary flexibility and support. However, notable progress has been made in preventive measures. The Nutrition Department's efforts to reduce salt intake, the CAN campaign's cancer awareness programs, and breastfeeding promotion initiatives by the Mother and Child Welfare Department all serve as commendable examples.
Kuwait has also taken important steps in healthcare provision, particularly with the establishment of a palliative care center - an essential service that supports the goals of sustainable health development. While the center faces administrative and staffing challenges, it fills a significant gap in the country's healthcare landscape. Positive cooperation is also evident among the Primary Care, Dental and Nursing departments and the CAN campaign, which have jointly trained physicians in cancer screening and early detection. The Diabetes Center, recently accredited as a regional reference facility, requires further support, and cancer treatment services must be upgraded with advanced technologies to keep pace with rapid medical developments.
Kuwait thus finds itself at a crossroads - with promising indicators and significant gaps. To advance, the Chronic Diseases Department and the Supreme Committee need dedicated budgets, empowered teams and clear performance metrics to monitor progress in alignment with the national strategy. Effective action demands a structured framework, flexible planning and a culture of accountability.
If Kuwait's administrative institutions rise to the occasion, the country - and others in the region following similar paths - could join the ranks of global health leaders by 2030. But without serious commitment, we risk falling behind - not the worst globally, but certainly far from the best. True leaders do not measure progress by those trailing behind, but by aspiring toward the top. Let us hope that by 2030, Kuwait and its Gulf counterparts will be counted among the nations that chose to lead, not follow, in the global fight against chronic disease.
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