Buena Salud (Good Health) Americas, Prevention of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) Through Community-Based Initiatives

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death in most regions in the world killing more than 36 million people annually. In the region of the Americas, 77% of deaths are due to NCDs where cardiovascular diseases are responsible for the larger proportion of these deaths. Health risk factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and the harmful use of alcohol increase the risk of or cause most NCDs. Through the Buena Salud Americas Initiative, the National Alliance for Hispanic Health (the Alliance) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) are bringing together the government sector and civil society in efforts for the prevention and control of NCDs with the common goal of achieving health for all in the Americas.

In February 2015, the Alliance, PAHO, and the Mexican Ministry of Health, will convene a joint meeting to support multi-sectorial collaboration for the prevention and control of NCDs focusing on advocacy at the community level. Through real-life examples and advocacy training, the meeting will help build the capacity of community-based organizations and civil society groups in the Americas to promote policies and systems that affect public health policy and promote community engagement. The sessions will focus on building local capacity through advocacy training of community leaders and civil society members, develop strategic partnerships, and help foster program sustainability. A particular focus of panels will be elected officials and community advocates presenting on soda tax and food labeling efforts in the Americas.

This presentation will highlight advocacy tools; soda tax and food labeling advocacy in the Americas; the development and implementation of partnership activities; profile best practices presented at the meeting; and, provide recommendations for action.