Non-Communicable Diseases

NCDs and Palliative Care

In rural parts of resource-poor countries, where healthcare is inaccessible, diagnoses of non-communicable diseases, such as cancer, are often made late or not at all. The cost of travelling for tests and often futile treatment can add up to a crippling debt for families. EMMS International has established itself as an expert in palliative care. It has sdeveloped specialist services, improved access to essential medicines, established degree-level training programmes and worked with governments to ensure palliative care is a recognised healthcare priority.

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Why Non-Communicable Diseases?

Diseases like cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and chronic respiratory conditions account for the majority of deaths worldwide, yet receive far less attention and funding compared to infectious diseases. In places like Malawi, Zambia, and Nepal, health systems often lack the capacity to detect, treat, or support people with NCDs.

NCDs cause long-term suffering, loss of income, and social exclusion. Without access to care, families face catastrophic health expenses or are forced to provide care without training or support. EMMS focuses on the most vulnerable—especially women and children—whose lives are disproportionately affected.

NCDs are the main drivers of the need for palliative care. EMMS supports access to pain relief, dignity in dying, and emotional and spiritual support—areas often neglected in underfunded health systems. Over the last decade, EMMS International has developed a deep understanding of how to improve and integrate palliative care in resource-poor settings.