Global health. The current scenario and future perspectives

163 • Bridging the gap between evidence-based knowledge and policies and practices on NCDs, between knowledge generators and those responsible for implementing them. The conclusion of this section is that form strong technical and political forces need to be formed that go beyond the national level to the regional or even global level, in order to implement strategies that often challenge the socio-economic model of countries and require progress on global equity agendas based on social determinants. Conclusions and Challenges NCDs are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. The main determinants of the problem are adverse environmental conditions linked to globalization, urbanization and industrialization, which have pushed society towards consumption by changing dietary patterns, physical activity and overall lifestyles, which especially affects low- and middle- income countries. Evidence has shown that it is possible to reduce the incidence of NCDs and control their prevalence by reducing risk factors and increasing protective factors through individual and population-based interventions aimed at modifying social determinants and food environments that hinder/impede healthy choices. The results of evidence-based public policies implemented for the control and prevention of obesity and NCDs suggest that the most successful strategies are those that incorporate changes at all stages of the life cycle and in the entire food system. Structural-level strategies, such as taxes on high-nutrient foods and subsidies for healthy foods, are among the most cost-effective strategies to promote a healthy diet. In summary, political commitment and strong global strategic alliances are required to combat the forces opposing change and achieve the goals set in the Sustainable Development Goals. References Adam, A. & Jensen, J. D. (2016). What is the effectiveness of obesity related interventions at retail grocery stores and supermarkets? —a systematic review. BMC Public Health , 16 (1), 1247. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889- 016-3985-x.