International Advocacy
Advocating to reduce noncommunicable diseases
In 2011, the United Nations convened a high-level summit to address the international epidemic of noncommunicable diseases (NCD). The most deadly of them, cardiovascular disease (CVD), is devastating families, communities and taking an economic toll on countries.
The AHA played an instrumental role in the lead up to this high level summit and has since advocated to support and contribute to the World Health Organization’s goal of reducing premature deaths from non-communicable disease by 25% by 2025. As one of the oldest organizations committed to cardiovascular disease and stroke, the Association is vested in helping reduce the international burden of CVD and stroke through collaboration with international partners and knowledge transfer of proven programs and strategies.
We share lifesaving information with – and learn from – other organizations, passionate supporters and governments to save more lives, from all walks of life.
We work in coalition with key international partners like the World Heart Federation(link opens in new window), the NCD Roundtable, the Non-communicable Disease Alliance, and over 150 sister cardiology and resuscitation societies and foundations, to speak with one voice and advocate for sound health and public policies.
We provide, in support of a country’s health priorities, our technical expertise and experience in developing both patient and public programs and campaigns to improve the quality of life and promote a culture of health.
The AHA is recognized by the United Nations Economic and Social Council, the central platform for reflection, debate, and innovative thinking on sustainable development and works closely with the World Health Organization’s regional office, the Pan American Health Organization(link opens in new window) to support technical cooperation to improve the health and quality of life in the Americas.
The AHA is also actively involved in advocating for NCDs and CVD as a global health priority within the United States government agencies through its active engagement in the NCD Roundtable and the Taskforce on Women and NCDs.
