Chronic non-communicable diseases are the number one cause of death and disability worldwide.4.1 million people die each year worldwide from NCDS, equivalent to 71% of all deaths globally.

Each year 2.2 million people in the region of the Americas die from a NCD between the ages of 30 to 69. Over 85% of these premature deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries.

NCDs are a major problem in Antigua and Barbuda. In 2020 among all deaths reported in the country which counts for 490 deaths, a total of 83 deaths occurred before age 70 years due to NCDs.

In keeping with this commitment, the Ministry of Health, Wellness, Social Transformation, and the Environment, in conjunction with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), is planning to undertake a STEPS Survey, which is a Non-Communicable Diseases Risk factor population-based survey, during the period August 9th to October 31st, 2023.

Antigua steps survey is the first nationally representative survey to collect comprehensive information on NCDs in Antigua and Barbuda. It will provide essential information on key indicators for non-communicable diseases for person’s aged 18-69 years.

This survey also has the potential for data collected to support target 3.4 of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—a one-third reduction in premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by 2030.