Non-communicable disease prevention, nutrition and aging.

Nutrition plays a decisive role across geographies and societal groups in contributing to human health, strengthening resilience and extending the period of being free from non-communicable diseases (NCD) and increasing the quality of life. The objective of this review article is to shed some light on the multiple, often interconnected facets of the increased healthy longevity of populations, one of the greatest success stories humanity has achieved over the last century. Multiple stakeholders need to align to overcome some of the protective 'hurdles' established over decades that focus on treating diseases rather than preventing them whenever possible, and to create coherent policies and incentives with respect to individuals and healthcare systems in order to enable healthier populations.

Diet and physical activity for the prevention of noncommunicable diseases in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic policy review.

Background: Diet-related noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are increasing rapidly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) and constitute a leading cause of mortality. Although a call for global action has been resonating for years, the progress in national policy development in LMICs has not been assessed. This review of strategies to prevent NCDs in LMICs provides a benchmark against which policy response can be tracked over time.

Diet and physical activity in schools: perspectives from the implementation of the WHO global strategy on diet, physical activity and health.

Non-communicable diseases (NCD), such as heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes, are by far the leading cause of mortality in the world, representing 60% of all deaths. Unhealthy diets and physical inactivity are well-established risk factors for overweight and the major NCD. In response to the rapid global growth of the NCD burden, the 2008 Action Plan on Prevention and Control of NCD and the 2004 Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity and Health (DPAS) have been developed and endorsed as key international policy instruments.

Salt intakes around the world: implications for public health.

Background: High levels of dietary sodium (consumed as common salt, sodium chloride) are associated with raised blood pressure and adverse cardiovascular health. Despite this, public health efforts to reduce sodium consumption remain limited to a few countries. Comprehensive, contemporaneous sodium intake data from around the world are needed to inform national/international public health initiatives to reduce sodium consumption.