Southeast Asia faces an epidemic of chronic non-communicable diseases, now responsible for 60% of deaths in the
region. The problem stems from environmental factors that promote tobacco use, unhealthy diet, and inadequate
physical activity. Disadvantaged populations are the hardest hit, with death rates inversely proportional to a country’s
gross national income. Families shoulder the fi nancial burden, but entire economies suff er as well. Although attempts
to control non-communicable diseases are increasing, more needs to be done. Health-care systems need to be
redesigned to deliver chronic care that is founded on existing primary health-care facilities, but supported by good
referral systems. Surveillance of key modifi able risk factors is needed to monitor the magnitude of the problem and
to study the eff ects of interventions. All branches of government and all sectors of society have to get involved in
establishing environments that are conducive to healthy living. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations is in a
unique position to make a united stand against chronic non-communicable diseases in the region. Inaction will aff ect
millions of lives—often, the lives of those who have the least.