Evolution of non-communicable disease prevention and control in China

The 70-year experience of China in fighting against non-communicable diseases (NCDs) can be classified into three distinct periods: 1) the disease-oriented strategy period (from 1950 to 1994); 2) the risk factor-focused strategy period (from 1995 to 2008); and 3) the social and policy priority strategy period (since 2009). A number of projects were successful and valuable experience and lessons were accumulated during the three periods. Due to the underestimation of the 'explosive' epidemic of NCDs, however, it took China quite a long time to find the right path to curb the upward trend in these diseases. In this commentary, the authors review the evolution of strategies and the healthcare service system, examine advances and challenges, and summarize experience and lessons in NCD control in China. In view of development, China's experience may have valuable implications for other low- and middle-income countries.