“With accurate data and analysis, countries will be able to prioritize essential resources and make sound policy decisions. The impact [of phone surveys]…can be a game changer.”
–Tom Frieden, MD, MPH, Former CDC Director
Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung diseases, are the leading causes of death claiming over 70% of all deaths worldwide, with the burden greatest in low- and middle-income countries. NCDs result in tremendous health care costs, limit productivity, and undermine the Sustainable Development Goals. The world is more connected by mobile phones than ever before, providing an opportunity to collect NCD data by leveraging mobile phone technology. Mobile phone surveys have the potential to produce timely, affordable, and accurate data to monitor public health trends.
