United Nations Thematic Working Group on Noncommunicable Disease Prevention and Control: case study – Thailand

This case study was developed with contribution of members of the UN Thematic Working Group on NCD Prevention and Control (TWG) in Thailand, including government health sector agencies and bodies, non-health ministries, civil society organizations, academia, and UN bodies.

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) are the most common killers globally, including in Thailand. While coordinated multisectoral action is essential for addressing the determinants of and reducing the risks for NCDs, there are few examples of how this can be done effectively at country level.

— Dr. Opart Karnkawinpong, Director General Department of Disease Control, Ministry of Public Health: “The battle against NCDs cannot be won by the health sector alone. I urge all government organizations to work hand in hand with the Ministry of Public Health to fight against NCDs together.”

— Gita Sabharwal, UN Resident Coordinator in Thailand: “The TWG should become a permanent institution in Thailand that sets its own goals, and is not just focused on recommendations from the UN. It can then bring together champions of best practice from the UN side as they have an overview of successful NCD interventions around the world.”