WHO Warns Disadvantaged Communities Face Greater Chronic Disease Risks

(MENAFN) People with lower incomes and limited education are more vulnerable to certain chronic illnesses and encounter greater obstacles in accessing diagnosis and treatment, the World Health Organization (WHO) warned Tuesday.

In its first worldwide evaluation of inequalities linked to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), the UN agency examined differences in the prevalence and management of cancer, cardiovascular conditions, chronic respiratory illnesses and diabetes.

The assessment also explored disparities involving major risk factors, including smoking, obesity, poor dietary habits and exposure to air pollution.

The findings indicated that people with lower educational attainment in low- and middle-income countries generally experience higher rates of hypertension and diabetes.

Women from disadvantaged economic and educational backgrounds also face reduced access to cervical cancer screening, leaving them less likely to undergo preventive examinations, according to the report.

The WHO further identified significant gaps between rural and urban communities. In many countries, people living in rural areas encounter greater difficulties obtaining hypertension diagnoses and treatment, as well as accessing cancer screening services.

Gender also influences exposure to chronic disease risks and access to medical care, the assessment found.

Men are more likely to consume tobacco and alcohol, while also facing lower rates of hypertension diagnosis and treatment, the findings showed.

MENAFN21102026000045017640ID1111841632