A political economy analysis of non-communicable disease development initiatives and strategies: a systematic literature review

Abstract

The leading cause of death worldwide is due to non-communicable, or chronic, diseases. The global burden of NCDs is substantial, and has significant negative implications for not just health, but socioeconomic institutions worldwide, particularly in low- to- middle-income countries. Even though the severity of the global burden of NCDs is globally recognized and understood, there has been little progress made in development initiatives specific to NCDs. To better understand the disconnect, this research conducts a political economy analysis of noncommunicable disease development initiatives via a systematic literature review. The findings of this research demonstrate that there are incredible tensions between stakeholders and their priorities and capacities. Thus far, proposed initiatives have not been accessible or desirable for LMICs. This is largely to do with the concentration of global northcentric multilateral organisations and donors in the NCD development realm. To effect change, NCD development initiatives must be context-specific, feasible, and most importantly, equitable.