The South-East Asia Region of the World Health Organization (WHO) is often referred to as “vulnerable”, “prone” and “high-risk” for earthquakes, cyclones, epidemics or social conflict. Lack of appropriate care during emergencies results in long-term morbidity and disability associated with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs). There are needs and challenges of integrating the health sector's emergency preparedness with the overall national disaster preparedness and response agencies and plans in Member States. This document is intended to provide technical guidance to emergency planners, emergency care professionals and policy-makers tasked with emergency response and preparedness to integrate NCD interventions within the national health emergency responses. It provides a brief overview of the impact of emergencies on people with NCDs and describes the priority actions and tools in relation to NCD care during emergencies.
