A young person’s issue too
NCDs are increasingly affecting younger people
Almost two-thirds of NCD-related deaths in South Africa occur before the age of 70 — affecting people during their working years.
Public Health InformationNon-Communicable Diseases
Non-Communicable Diseases
in South Africa
Simple, trusted health information for the public.
Aligned with South Africa’s NCD Strategic Plan 2022–2027
How to protect your healthWhat are NCDs?
Non-communicable diseases, often called NCDs, are long-term health conditions that are not infectious — they cannot be passed from one person to another.
In South Africa, NCDs are a major and growing public health challenge. They include heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, sugar diabetes, cancer, and mental health conditions.
South Africa’s National Strategic Plan for NCDs (2022–2027) recognises them as a leading threat to health and wellbeing, and calls for greater public awareness and prevention.
The main conditions
These conditions usually develop over time, require long-term care, and share common risk factors.
Heart Disease
Conditions affecting the heart and blood vessels.
Stroke
Disruption of blood flow to the brain.
High Blood Pressure
Often called the "silent killer" — usually has no symptoms.
Diabetes
A long-term condition affecting blood sugar levels.
Cancer
Abnormal cell growth that can affect any part of the body.
Mental Health
Includes depression, anxiety and other long-term conditions.
Why NCDs matter in South Africa
The numbers tell a clear story — and they affect every family.
59%
Increase in major NCD deaths
Between 1997 and 2018 in South Africa.
1 in 6
Deaths from heart disease & stroke
Among the leading causes of death nationally.
2.3M+
Adults living with diabetes
And the number continues to rise.
Mind matters
Mental health is also an NCD
Conditions such as depression and anxiety are recognised as NCDs and often occur alongside physical illnesses. Caring for your mind is part of caring for your health.
How to prevent NCDs
Small, daily choices add up. These six steps lower your risk of developing the most common non-communicable diseases.
1
Avoid tobacco
Quitting smoking lowers the risk of heart disease, cancer and stroke at any age.
2
Stay active
At least 30 minutes of movement most days helps protect heart and mental health.
3
Eat well
Choose vegetables, fruit, beans and whole grains. Cut back on salt, sugar and processed food.
4
Limit alcohol
Less alcohol means a lower risk of liver disease, cancer and high blood pressure.
5
Know your numbers
Check your blood pressure and blood sugar regularly at your local clinic.
6
Care for your mind
Talk to someone you trust, and reach out for help with depression or anxiety.
Aligned with national strategy
This site supports South Africa’s National Strategic Plan for the Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (2022–2027) by sharing clear, public-facing information that anyone can use.