International Journal of Health Policy and Management

International Journal of Health Policy and Management

Future Best Buys Can and Should Do More; Comment on “Barriers and Opportunities for WHO ‘Best Buys’ Non-Communicable Disease Policy Adoption and Implementation From a Political Economy Perspective: A Complexity Systematic Review”

Document Type : Commentary

Authors
Safura Abdool Karim 1, 2
Marlyn Faure 3
1 Berman Institute of Bioethics, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
2 Centre for the Programme of Aids Research in South Africa, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
3 Ethox Centre, Oxford University, Oxford, UK
10.34172/ijhpm.9047
Abstract
Over a decade has passed since the World Health Organization (WHO) proposed a set of “best buys” for the prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Loffreda and colleagues’ review describes how, despite the costeffectiveness of these interventions, their adoption is often complex and governments face many challenges in both implementing and maintaining NCD prevention policies. Industry opposition and the commercial determinants of health (CDoH) remain significant challenges to an effective NCD response. In addition, the best buys may operate inequitably and are often unable to respond to the interrelated challenges posed by the global syndemic of obesity. We suggest that the next revision of the best buys adopts a more integrated approach that prioritize structural interventions, equity-focused strategies, and mechanisms to counteract industry interference. 
Keywords
NCDs
Non-communicable Diseases
Obesity Prevention Policy
CDoH
Public Health Nutrition
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International Journal of Health Policy and Management
Volume 14, Issue 1
2025
Pages 1-4

  • Received Date 20 February 2025
  • Revised Date 07 May 2025
  • Accepted Date 11 May 2025
  • First Published Date 14 May 2025
  • Published Date 01 December 2025