18 December 2023

On February 14, 2023, the European Parliament (EP) took a crucial step towards addressing public health challenges within the European Union (EU) by establishing the Subcommittee on Public Health (SANT). One of SANT’s first initiatives was the elaboration of an Own-Initiative (INI) Report on non-communicable diseases (NCDs), drafted by MEP Erik Poulsen (Renew Europe, Denmark). This INI report was officially adopted by the EP during its plenary session in Strasbourg on December 13, 2023.

MMD members involved in the SANT subcommittee played a key role in developing the report which will significantly contribute to influence EU health policies targeting NCD prevention and management. The report highlights the critical link between NCDs and communicable diseases and stresses the importance of identifying at-risk populations for early diagnosis. The report calls on member states and the commission to foster innovation to accelerate the development of accessible, affordable and effective medical technologies and treatments. It also emphasises the need for patient empowerment to improve health outcomes.

IDF Europe’s position paper on the SANT INI report on NCDs adds further recommendations based on key challenges and needs of people living with diabetes. It aims to support policies that reduce NCD-related costs and inequalities while improving the quality of life for those living with NCDs. It advocates for the development of resilient health systems capable of preventing, detecting and responding to public health threats, while ensuring continuous access to high-quality routine care.