SEPTEMBER 2018 | Andreia Silva da Costa, Carlota Ribeiro da Silva, Elke Jakubowski, Paulo Nogueira
This study assesses Portugal's progress towards achieving SDG target 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by one third by 2030. Data from the Statistics Portugal database (1990–2014) were analyzed using linear and quadratic projections with weighted and non-weighted regression models. The results indicate that Portugal is on track to meet the target for diabetes-related premature mortality, but there is a 50% chance of achieving the desired reduction for respiratory diseases. Cardiovascular disease-related premature mortality is not decreasing fast enough to meet the target, and malignant tumour-related mortality is also not decreasing sufficiently. The study concludes that Portugal is on track to achieve the target, but further actions are needed to ensure success. The four major NCDs—cardiovascular diseases, malignant tumours, respiratory diseases, and diabetes—require targeted interventions. Portugal has implemented several national strategies and programmes to address these diseases, including reducing tobacco use, promoting healthy eating, and improving physical activity. Legislative measures have also been introduced to reduce NCD risk factors. Despite these efforts, projections suggest that Portugal may fall short of the 25% reduction in NCD-related mortality by 2025. However, with over a decade until 2030, there is still time to adjust strategies and policies to meet the target. The study highlights the importance of continued efforts to reduce NCD-related mortality and improve public health.This study assesses Portugal's progress towards achieving SDG target 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality from noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) by one third by 2030. Data from the Statistics Portugal database (1990–2014) were analyzed using linear and quadratic projections with weighted and non-weighted regression models. The results indicate that Portugal is on track to meet the target for diabetes-related premature mortality, but there is a 50% chance of achieving the desired reduction for respiratory diseases. Cardiovascular disease-related premature mortality is not decreasing fast enough to meet the target, and malignant tumour-related mortality is also not decreasing sufficiently. The study concludes that Portugal is on track to achieve the target, but further actions are needed to ensure success. The four major NCDs—cardiovascular diseases, malignant tumours, respiratory diseases, and diabetes—require targeted interventions. Portugal has implemented several national strategies and programmes to address these diseases, including reducing tobacco use, promoting healthy eating, and improving physical activity. Legislative measures have also been introduced to reduce NCD risk factors. Despite these efforts, projections suggest that Portugal may fall short of the 25% reduction in NCD-related mortality by 2025. However, with over a decade until 2030, there is still time to adjust strategies and policies to meet the target. The study highlights the importance of continued efforts to reduce NCD-related mortality and improve public health.