About NCDs

Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), in particular cardiovascular, diabetes, cancer and respiratory conditions account for most deaths worldwide. The combined burden of early mortality and disability attributable to chronic NCDs is growing globally and at an unprecedented rate in LMICs as a consequence of population aging, unplanned urbanisation, and widespread unhealthy lifestyles. As a result, current health systems are challenged with an ever-increasing number of chronic patients adding up to already burdened structures due to persistent and emerging infections. Additionally, the associated economic burden related to NCD scare poses major challenges for patients and their families and for societies at large.

At the GHI, we develop research aiming to understanding the burden of NCDs globally and particularly across vulnerable populations. We investigate the complex relationships between NCDs risk factors, including syndemics, and the effectiveness of potential opportunities for prevention strategies at all levels through mathematical modelling, mixed-methods research.


In-house staff

Ongoing PhDs:
Finalized PhDs:

These academics have obtained their doctoral degree under GHI supervision on an NCD related topic. By clicking on the name, the abstract of the PhD thesis can be consulted: Dr. Geoffrey Musinguzi, Dr. Eric Maimela, Dr. Rawlance Ndejjo, Dr. Hamid Hassen

Ongoing projects


Development and implementation of an advanced course on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) prevention and control in Ethiopia

Period: 2023-2025

Donor: VLIR-UOS

Coordinator: Prof. José L. Peñalvo, University of Antwerp

Funding: € 149.985

In collaboration with Addis Ababa University, this International Training Program (ITP) aims at building the capacity of trainees on appraising and tackling the burden, determinants and prevention and control strategies from the global and Ethiopian perspectives.

Past projects


SPICES - Scaling-up Packages of Interventions for Cardiovascular disease prevention in sites in Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa

see website SPICES