Noncommunicable diseases are the leading cause of premature death globally.

Every year, 41 million people die from heart attacks, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, diabetes or a mental disorder. 

Despite the concerning trends and figures, global efforts are not enough to prevent and reverse the harm.

In order to effectively reduce NCDs globally, there needs to be a clear understanding of the factors that contribute to illness and the efforts that are being made throughout the world to address the critical issues.  

In response, the WHO has developed ‘best buys’ – a set of 16...

The consumption of alcohol, tobacco and other drugs is a significant cause of preventable disease and illness in Australia. There is a wide range of data sources available that contribute to our understanding of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use. 

This report consolidates the most recently available information on alcohol, tobacco and other drug use in Australia. It includes key trends in the availability, consumption, harms and treatment for vulnerable populations.

Further, information on a range of health, social and economic impacts of alcohol, tobacco and other drug use are...

Opiates are some of the most effective pain relief medications for patients suffering from cancer- and surgery-related pain.

Unfortunately, medications in this class are also used as drugs of abuse. Despite the affordability and effectiveness of these medications, access to opiates is highly geographically variable.

This is an interactive tool for exploring and visualizing opioid consumption around the world from 1989-2013, based on data from the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB).