A new report jointly released by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) makes a compelling case for increased investment in digital health tools to combat noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). The report, titled “Going digital for noncommunicable diseases: the case for action,” reveals that an additional US$0.24 per patient per year in digital interventions such as telemedicine, mobile messaging, and chatbots could save more than 2 million lives over the next decade. It could also prevent around 7 million acute health events and hospitalizations, significantly reducing the burden on global healthcare systems.
The report was launched at an event during the 79th United Nations General Assembly in collaboration with the Government of The Gambia, WHO, and ITU, emphasizing the urgent need for action in the digital health sector.
Noncommunicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions, account for 74% of global deaths annually. Despite progress in reducing the burden of NCDs, many of these diseases are preventable, with four major risk factors driving their prevalence:
- Tobacco use
- Unhealthy diets
- Harmful alcohol consumption
- Physical inactivity
These lifestyle factors contribute to critical health risks such as obesity, raised blood pressure, high blood glucose, and elevated cholesterol. The report underscores that digital health tools can help individuals manage these modifiable risk factors and encourage healthier behaviours.
TOOLS THAT MAKE A DIFFERENCE
Digital health tools offer innovative solutions to some of the most persistent barriers in healthcare, especially for those living with NCDs. Telemedicine services can provide continuous monitoring and long-term care for patients who face difficulties accessing healthcare facilities. Mobile messaging and chatbots can help individuals track and modify their health habits, such as quitting smoking, improving their diet, or increasing physical activity.
These tools also enable real-time data for healthcare professionals, empowering them to make informed decisions and provide more personalized care. Doreen Bogdan-Martin, ITU Secretary-General, emphasized the potential for a digital health revolution, stating: “Universal meaningful connectivity is a priority because digital tools are catalysts for delivering critical health services.”
CURRENT GAPS IN DIGITAL HEALTH IMPLEMENTATION
Despite the promise of digital health, the integration of these technologies into mainstream health systems remains a challenge. While 60% of countries have developed a digital health strategy, many still face issues incorporating new digital tools into existing healthcare infrastructure. The lack of standards and interoperability is a significant barrier, limiting the potential of digital solutions to address the growing burden of NCDs.
Need for Digital Public Infrastructure
To unlock the full potential of digital health, the report calls for countries to invest in digital public infrastructure and establish standards that ensure interoperability across different healthcare systems. These investments are crucial for enabling seamless communication between patients and healthcare providers, which is essential for scaling digital interventions.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, highlighted the importance of collaboration in bringing these innovations to life, stating: “No single organization can do it alone. We call on governments, partners, and donors to come together, invest strategically, and ensure these life-saving innovations reach those who need them most.”
DIGITAL HEALTH AS A BLUEPRINT FOR THE FUTURE
The report is part of broader efforts under the WHO Global Initiative on Digital Health and the Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020-2025, aiming to guide countries in adopting and scaling digital health solutions. The United Nations Inter-Agency Task Force for the prevention and control of NCDs (UNIATF), in collaboration with WHO and ITU, is working to provide tailored strategic planning and advocacy support to governments through the Be He@lthy, Be Mobile programme.
Impact of Small Investments
A relatively small investment of $0.24 per patient per year in digital health tools could yield significant health benefits. Beyond the 2 million lives saved, digital interventions can help prevent acute health events, reduce hospitalizations, and improve patient management, particularly in underserved regions.
The long-term economic benefits are also considerable. By reducing the strain on healthcare systems, digital tools could save governments millions in healthcare costs. Preventable hospitalizations, improved patient outcomes, and a healthier global population will ultimately lead to a more resilient and cost-effective healthcare system.
ADDRESSING THE GLOBAL NCD CRISIS
The report emphasizes that the global burden of NCDs is not just a health issue—it’s an economic one. As NCDs continue to rise, especially in low- and middle-income countries, healthcare systems are struggling to keep pace. These diseases often require long-term, specialized care, which can overwhelm healthcare systems if not managed efficiently.
Reducing the NCD Burden with Digital Solutions
By harnessing digital technologies, countries can mitigate the growing burden of NCDs. For instance, telemedicine can extend healthcare access to remote regions, while mobile health apps can provide patients with real-time feedback on their health metrics, helping them make informed decisions.
These digital tools also enable more personalized care, where patients can receive tailored recommendations and track their progress toward better health. Whether it’s managing blood glucose levels for diabetes patients or tracking heart health in cardiovascular disease, digital solutions provide a proactive approach to managing NCDs.
CALL FOR GLOBAL COLLABORATION
The success of digital health solutions hinges on global collaboration between governments, healthcare providers, technology companies, and civil society. Dr. Tedros called for a collective effort to invest in digital health infrastructure, stressing that these innovations can only reach their full potential if everyone works together.
Doreen Bogdan-Martin echoed this sentiment, noting that the digital revolution has the potential to unlock major advances in health and education. Collaboration between the tech and health sectors will be essential for building the digital public infrastructure required to scale these life-saving tools.
