NCDs in Qatar: From burden to action

24 September 2025 - Across the world, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as one of the greatest health challenges of our time.

In Qatar, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancers and chronic respiratory illnesses account for around 72% of all deaths. Rapid social and lifestyle changes, as well as an ageing population, have led to rising rates of obesity, physical inactivity and diabetes, causing pressure on health services, forcing them to innovate and adapt.

In response, the country has been stepping up efforts to prevent and control NCDs, guided by Qatar's Vision 2030, Third National Development Strategy (2024-2030) and national health strategies. With strong national commitment, the challenges are being met through policies, strategies and partnerships that place prevention, early detection and people-centred care at the centre of Qatar's health agenda.

This work has brought concrete changes, such as taxes on sugary and energy drinks, reducing salt in bread by 30% and creating national dietary guidelines for adults, children and mothers. These measures show how leadership by the Ministry of Public Health, coordinated intersectoral action and strong partnerships can make a real difference.

The country has also taken bold steps in cancer control. Launched in August 2023, the Qatar Cancer Plan (2023-2026) takes a comprehensive view of the cancer continuum. It looks beyond clinical care, focusing on awareness, community engagement and partnerships which transform cancer control into a shared national effort.

Progress has been seen as well in tobacco control. Qatar ratified the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, banned e-cigarettes and hosted a tobacco-free FIFA World Cup in 2022. More recently, the Hamad Medical Corporation Tobacco Control Centre was designated a WHO Collaborating Centre in August 2025 and received the WHO Director-General's Special Recognition Certificate for its "Smoke-Free Majlis" campaign, which promotes healthier, smoke-free social gatherings. Bold measures are required to meet the increasing threat of new products targeting the youth, such as expanding cessation services, introducing plain packaging and raising awareness among target population groups.

At the same time, Qatar has invested in stronger surveillance systems to guide policy with evidence. The WHO STEPwise risk-factor survey has been repeated, data systems are being digitized and linked, and indicators are being aligned with global standards. Additionally, facility-based NCD surveillance is being considered. These tools make it possible to monitor trends, identify gaps and target resources more effectively.

However, the challenges remain significant. More than 70% of adults are overweight or obese, and hypertension affects over 600 000 people aged 30 to 79, many of whom remain undiagnosed or untreated. Addressing these gaps will require stronger services at the primary health care level, sustained collaboration across sectors, and engaged and informed communities.

What stands out about Qatar's journey is its commitment to innovation and partnership. At the World Innovation Summit for Health in November 2024, NCDs and women's cancers were central themes. The country is preparing to host the Sixth Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit in from 30 September to 1 October 2025, bringing high-level international attention to the importance of integrating mental health into broader health agendas and highlighting Qatar's role in shaping discussions that reach beyond its borders.

Qatar's experience shows that even though NCDs place a heavy burden on the country, real measurable progress can happen when there is strong commitment, proven solutions and community involvement. By focusing on prevention, early detection and better health services, Qatar is working to improve people's lives today, while setting an example for the region on how to build a healthier future.