As a downside of economic and social development, emerging nations are fast acquiring first world non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, obesity and heart ailments that afflict the middle classes in places like India, Mexico, and South Africa.

Unfortunately, these nations and others lack the experience, expertise and capacity to deal with burgeoning NCDs. Experts note that, for example, in India, one in eight people have diabetes or are at risk for developing the disease. And in countries like South Africa, it’s estimated that only 15 percent of people with diabetes have been properly diagnosed.

Recently, the UN held its first High Level Meeting on Non-Communicable Diseases. The international community is starting to notice that NCDs are a huge problem - but there are solutions already working in many countries.

Pledge today in support of long-term education and screening programs for countries where knowledge is scarce on preventing and managing NCDs.