Non-Communicable Diseases

This book highlights the association between psychosocial elements and non-communicable diseases (NCDs). It assumes significance in contemporary times because of the progressive rise in non-communicable diseases, particularly, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes across the globe. The WHO Sustainable Developmental Goal 3.4 target of reducing non-communicable diseases (one-third) by 2030, can be achieved better when psychosocial interventions supplement medical interventions.

The book utilizes extensive data to discuss the synergic relationship between NCDs and disease cognition, affect state and health behaviour. It argues that lifestyle changes go a long way in the prevention and control of NCDs. Cost effective public health measures and sustainable lifestyle changes at individual levels add practical value at macro and micro levels. Intervention modules used in controlled group studies constitute evidence-based research for substituting the current biomedical approaches with a biopsychosocial perspective. It also provides psychosocial assessment tools for NCDs, thus facilitating a holistic approach to NCDs which optimizes the diagnosis, treatment outcomes and effective public health measures for the prevention of NCDs.

This book will be useful to students of Psychology, Sociology, Social Work, Public Health and Medical fields. It will also be useful to researchers and practitioners of Health Psychology, Social and Community Medicine, Public Health and Public Policy.