What is an NCD?

1. What is an NCD? Why are NCDs becoming a global health priority?
2. What are the major risk factors for chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs)?
3. What is the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)? Has it been effective?
4. Why is chronic kidney disease a global health issue?
5. What is cirrhosis? What are the major risk factors for cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases?
6. How is sickle cell anemia different from thalassemia?
7. What could your community do to be more accessible to people with vision impairments and those who are blind?
8. What is edentulism? How does this condition affect overall health? What percentage of adults have this condition?

ANSWER
1. **Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)** are chronic diseases that are not caused by infectious agents. They are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. NCDs are becoming a global health priority because of their increasing prevalence and the significant burden they place on individuals, families, and societies.

2. The major risk factors for chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs) include:

* Tobacco smoking
* Air pollution
* Occupational exposure to dust and fumes
* Allergens
* Respiratory infections
* Poor nutrition

3. The **Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC)** is a global treaty that aims to reduce tobacco consumption and its devastating health consequences. It was adopted by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2003 and has been ratified by 182 countries.

The FCTC has been effective in reducing tobacco consumption in many countries. For example, a study published in the journal *The Lancet* found that the FCTC has helped to avert more than 70 million premature deaths worldwide between 2008 and 2019.

4. Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a global health issue because it is a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and death. CKD is also a leading cause of end-stage kidney disease, which requires dialysis or kidney transplantation.

The prevalence of CKD is increasing worldwide, due to factors such as aging, diabetes, and hypertension. CKD is estimated to affect more than 10% of the world’s population.

5. Cirrhosis is a chronic liver disease that is characterized by the formation of scar tissue in the liver. Cirrhosis can be caused by a variety of factors, including alcohol abuse, viral hepatitis, and fatty liver disease.

The major risk factors for cirrhosis and other chronic liver diseases include:

* Alcohol abuse
* Viral hepatitis
* Fatty liver disease
* Autoimmune diseases
* Genetic disorders

6. Sickle cell anemia and thalassemia are both genetic blood disorders that can cause anemia. However, there are some key differences between the two conditions.

Sickle cell anemia is caused by a mutation in the gene that produces hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. The mutation causes the red blood cells to be sickle-shaped, which can make them get stuck in blood vessels and block blood flow.

Thalassemia is caused by a mutation in the genes that control the production of hemoglobin. This mutation can lead to a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin in the red blood cells, which can cause anemia.

7. Here are some things your community can do to be more accessible to people with vision impairments and those who are blind:

* Make sure sidewalks and ramps are free of obstructions and well-lit.
* Install tactile paving at crosswalks and other pedestrian areas.
* Provide audible cues at traffic signals and other public places.
* Make sure public transportation is accessible to people with vision impairments.
* Offer training to businesses and organizations on how to make their services accessible to people with vision impairments.

8. Edentulism is the complete loss of teeth. It is a common condition among older adults, but it can also occur in younger people due to factors such as poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and trauma.

Edentulism can have a significant impact on overall health. It can make it difficult to eat, speak, and swallow. Edentulism can also lead to malnutrition and social isolation.

According to the World Health Organization, an estimated 17% of adults worldwide have edentulism. The prevalence of edentulism is higher in low- and middle-income countries than in high-income countries.

To prevent edentulism, it is important to practice good oral hygiene and to see a dentist for regular checkups and cleanings.