The Ministry of Health of Mongolia, with support from the World Health Organization (WHO), has unveiled the National Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (NCDs) 2026–2028, marking a renewed commitment to addressing one of the country's most pressing health and development challenges.
State Secretary of the Ministry of Health Dr N. Erdenebayar, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala, and WHO Representative to Mongolia Dr Socorro Escalante led the roll-out of the Plan.
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) – including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes and chronic respiratory diseases – remain the leading cause of death in Mongolia. They account for nearly 81% of all deaths nationwide, while the probability of dying prematurely remains around 29%, significantly higher than both the global and regional averages.i
Beyond their impact on health, NCDs place a substantial burden on families, communities and the economy through rising health-care costs, lost productivity and reduced economic participation. Reducing the burden of NCDs is essential to achieving healthier lives, stronger communities and sustainable economic development in Mongolia.
The Action Plan sets out six strategic priorities, including strengthening the legal framework for NCD prevention; improving surveillance and data systems; enhancing evidence-based decision-making; expanding health promotion; strengthening primary health care; and improving access to early detection, diagnosis and treatment.
It also prioritizes action on major risk factors, including tobacco and alcohol use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and obesity, while promoting stronger multisectoral collaboration and healthier environments.
State Secretary Dr N. Erdenebayar emphasized the importance of coordinated action across sectors.
"Preventing noncommunicable diseases requires more than health services alone. It requires action across government, communities, schools, workplaces, and families. This Action Plan provides a roadmap for working together to create healthier environments, reduce risk factors and improve health outcomes for all Mongolians."
Dr Saia Ma'u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, welcomed Mongolia's continued commitment to tackling NCDs.
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Dr Saia Ma’u Piukala, WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, addresses the launch event of Mongolia’s renewed strategy to prevent and control noncommunicable diseases. © WHO Mongolia
"Mongolia has demonstrated strong leadership by placing the prevention and control of noncommunicable diseases high on the national agenda," said Dr Piukala. "This Action Plan is an investment in the health, wellbeing and productivity of future generations and indeed the country’s long-term prosperity. By acting now, Mongolia can save lives, strengthen its workforce and support sustainable economic growth."
The Action Plan aligns with Mongolia's long-term development vision and global commitments, including the Sustainable Development Goals, which call for a one-third reduction in premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases by 2030.
WHO will continue to support the Government of Mongolia in implementing evidence-based interventions and strengthening health systems to reduce the burden of noncommunicable diseases and improve population health.