The global NCD epidemic is a gender, health, and development issue. Men’s and women’s roles, risks, and healthcare access barriers affect outcomes of the four major NCDs – cancer, cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes. The socio-economic, legal, and political status of girls and women may increase their vulnerability to NCDs. Male gender norms of failing to seek timely care may worsen NCD outcomes, while men and boy’s greater involvement in sports may protect against NCDs. 

Gender must be an integral component to all strategies, policies and programmes to ensure the human right of universal access to NCD prevention and treatment programmes. 

Information on NCDs and gender activities