Non-communicable diseases: calling healthcare educators to action.

Increasing numbers of people across the world are developing preventable non-communicable diseases (NCDs). This has massive social and economic implications for individuals, families, communities and countries, and impacts on the roles, responsibilities and future careers of nurses. The growing epidemic of NCDs is attracting increasing attention at every level and in almost every country. Many of the causes and solutions are beyond the remit of the health sector alone, calling instead for a system-wide approach. However, with the necessary knowledge and skills, the millions of nurses worldwide are well placed to make a significant contribution to the prevention and management of NCDs, focusing particularly on tobacco cessation, a healthy diet (including safe use of alcohol) and physical activity.