Tuesday 15 October 2024, Geneva – Today marks the beginning of this year’s Global Week for Action on NCDs (GW4A), a worldwide advocacy event led by civil society, with a call for world leaders to create a fairer and healthier world by implementing evidence-based solutions for tackling NCDs, the number one cause of death and disability worldwide. To kick-off the week, the NCD Alliance has launched two short films spotlighting the impactful stories of local leaders advocating for better NCD care in their communities.

“Going Full Circle” gives a view into life for women living with diabetes in India, and the myriad of social, emotional and economic challenges that go beyond managing blood sugar. Diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in their childhoods, Nupur Lalvani and Snehal Nandagawli dedicate their lives to supporting women living with diabetes across India through the Pune-based, patient-led Blue Circle Diabetes Foundation. The circles of care created by peer support groups play a crucial role in educating communities, advocating for insulin for all and providing practical and emotional support. Nupur and Snehal show us how their circle helps to ensure access and empower women, especially in underserved areas.

“Raise Your Voice” is filmed in Malawi, where NCDs such as cancer and diabetes are still relatively new as a major health burden. Limited access, low investment and long distances to medical clinics contrast dramatically with the healthcare provided in high-income countries. Chikhu Ng’ombe and Samuel Kumwanje are advocates living with NCDs, and they are raising their voices to help others access the diagnosis, treatment and care they need. The film documents their daily realities of accessing care, while standing up for their right to health and helping change the lives of thousands. The Raise Your Voice micro-documentary is an inspiration for all those who would like to advocate for change. Every voice counts.

The NCD Alliance encourages everyone to watch the mini-films and take part in the Global Week for Action. These are some of the ways to get involved: