title: The need for capacity building to prevent chronic diseases in North Africa and the Middle East.
abstract: Chronic (noncommunicable) diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes mellitus, are a global public health problem that is increasing, particularly in developing countries. According to the World Health Organization, over the period 2006-15, the largest increase in deaths from chronic diseases will occur in the regions of Africa and the Middle East. This article outlines the problems facing theses regions with regard to chronic diseases, and discusses the urgent need for capacity building and community-based programmes in order to enhance regional capability for tackling chronic diseases.
authors.affiliation: Department of Epidemiology, University Hospital Farhat Hached, Sousse, Tunisia. hassen.ghannem@rns.tn
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Ghannem
mesh_terms: D000352:Africa, Northern; D057191:Capacity Building; D002908:Chronic Disease / Q000517:prevention & control*; D003906:Developing Countries; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008877:Middle East; D012307:Risk Factors; D014944:World Health Organization