Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory diseases, are responsible for over 74% of global deaths annually

A $0.24 Yearly Investment Per Patient Could Save Millions Of Lives

A small investment of just US$0.24 (RM 0.99) per patient yearly in digital health tools like telemedicine, mobile messaging, and chatbots could save over 2 million lives in the next 10 years.

This is according to a new report by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU). These technologies could also prevent around 7 million serious health crises and hospitalizations, easing the burden on healthcare systems worldwide.

The report, “Going Digital for Noncommunicable Diseases: The Case for Action,” was presented at an event in The Gambia during the 79th United Nations General Assembly.

It highlights the urgent need for countries to embrace digital health solutions to tackle the growing threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

NCDs, such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory illnesses, are responsible for more than 74% of global deaths each year. Many of these deaths could be avoided with the right interventions.

WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasized the importance of collaboration in realizing the full potential of digital health.

“The future of health is digital,” he said. “But to make this vision a reality, we need resources and collaboration. We call on governments, partners, and donors to come together and invest strategically.”

ITU Secretary-General Doreen Bogdan-Martin also highlighted how digital technology could revolutionize healthcare.

“The digital revolution has the potential to unleash a health revolution,” she said. “But we need stronger collaboration between the health and tech sectors to build the digital infrastructure necessary for these innovations.”

NCDs are often triggered by lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, lack of exercise, and alcohol misuse. These habits contribute to high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, and other health issues.

Digital tools like mobile messaging can help individuals track their health, understand their risk factors, and develop healthier habits. Telemedicine, on the other hand, can make healthcare more accessible, especially for those who need long-term or specialized care.

Although many countries have developed digital health strategies, these technologies are not always integrated into existing healthcare systems.

The report urges governments to invest in digital infrastructure and adopt standards that will allow different systems to work together.

By embracing digital health solutions, we can make healthcare more efficient, accessible, and impactful, helping millions of people live healthier lives.