Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health Conditions in Peru: The Case for Investment

Abstract

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and mental disorders are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Peru. NCDs account for seven out of every 10 deaths in the country, and nearly half of all people who die from NCDs in Peru are under the age of 70. In addition to the burden they impose on health, these diseases represent a significant burden on the national economy: treating them is expensive and those who suffer from them are more likely to stop working, be absent from work, or work with reduced capacity. Moreover, this situation generates high social costs, since mental health is fundamental to personal well-being, relationships, and making a positive contribution to society.

This investment case was conducted in collaboration with the Ministry of Health of Peru, the World Health Organization/Pan American Health Organization, and UNDP. It is intended to strengthen the country's capacity to generate economic evidence on NCDs and mental disorders and to develop, finance, and implement national prevention and control strategies across sectors. The calculated return on investment for the next 15 years is based on three groups of interventions: 1) policies to control tobacco, alcohol, and salt consumption; 2) measures to control cardiovascular disease and diabetes; and 3) expanded treatment of mental disorders, particularly depression, anxiety, and psychotic conditions. Although NCDs and mental disorders represent a considerable burden on health and the economy, this investment case shows that Peru can greatly reduce the burden if it implements the measures recommended by WHO to tackle these diseases more effectively.