Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes, are the leading cause of mortality in the world. This invisible epidemic is an under-appreciated cause of poverty and hinders the economic development of many countries. The burden is growing – the number of people, families and communities afflicted is increasing.

NCDs already disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries where nearly 80% of NCD deaths – 29 million – occur. They are the leading causes of death in all regions except Africa, but current projections indicate that by 2020 the largest increases in NCD deaths will occur in Africa. In African nations, deaths from NCDs are projected to exceed the combined deaths of communicable and nutritional diseases and maternal and perinatal deaths as the most common causes of death by 2030.
Mount Kenya University reckons that a concerted, comprehensive and integrated action is the best means to aid in the lowering morbidity and mortality due to NCDs. The University therefore proposes a three-day forum that brings together a team of experts and stakeholders to help in formulation of MKU NCD Research Programme