
Reduction of NCDs' premature mortality SDG target 3.4
This special collection focuses on the global and regional challenge of premature mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, and chronic respiratory conditions. These diseases remain the leading contributors to mortality worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries, where health systems face increasing strain. Aligned with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) Target 3.4, which aims to reduce premature mortality from NCDs by one-third by 2030, this collection publishes evidence that informs policy, strengthens health systems, and promotes effective prevention and treatment strategies. [who.int] The collection provides a platform for interdisciplinary research addressing epidemiological trends, risk factors, health system responses, and innovative interventions aimed at reducing NCD-related mortality. Special emphasis is placed on African contexts, where rapid urbanization, changing lifestyles, and inequities contribute to rising NCD burdens. Through this collection, JAEPHS aims to contribute to evidence-based decision-making and accelerate progress towards achieving universal health coverage and improved population health outcomes.
About this Collection
Focus:
Objectives of the Collection 1. Generate Evidence on NCD Burden To document the epidemiology and trends of premature mortality from major NCDs To analyze age-specific mortality patterns (30–70 years) relevant to SDG 3.4 2. Identify Key Risk Factors To examine behavioral and environmental determinants such as: Tobacco and alcohol use Unhealthy diet and physical inactivity Air pollution and occupational exposures 3. Evaluate Health System Responses To assess health system readiness for: NCD prevention and early detection Access to treatment and long-term care Integration of NCD services into primary healthcare 4. Assess Policy and SDG Progress To evaluate national and regional progress toward SDG Target 3.4 To analyze the effectiveness of: Public health policies National NCD strategies Multisectoral interventions 5. Promote Innovation and Best Practices To highlight evidence-based interventions including: Community-based prevention programs Digital health solutions Screening and early diagnosis initiatives 6. Address Health Inequalities To explore disparities in NCD outcomes across: Socioeconomic groups Geographic regions (urban vs rural) Gender and vulnerable populations 7. Strengthen Research and Collaboration To encourage interdisciplinary and cross-country research collaborations To support knowledge exchange between policymakers, practitioners, and researchersGoal 3 - Good Health and Well-being
June 14, 2026
Editors
Dr. Moses Gitonga MPH, PhD
Dedan Kimathi University of Technology
Dr. Moses Gitonga, PhD, is the Director of the Center for Health Research & Innovation (CHeRi) and a Senior Lecturer and Epidemiologist at the School of Health Sciences, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology (DeKUT) in Nyeri, Kenya. He holds a PhD in Epidemiology from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. His expertise spans epidemiology, population health, and the control of both communicable and non-communicable diseases. Dr. Gitonga's research program is primarily focused on chronic disease management in Kenya, investigating prevalence, care strategies, and primordial prevention. He also has strong research interests in maternal and child health, HIV, and sexual health, with a particular emphasis on addressing healthcare access barriers and understanding risk factors among diverse populations, including university students. Dr. Gitonga has made significant contributions to public health, evidenced by his recent publications in peer-reviewed journals. His work explores critical areas such as the barriers and facilitators to cervical cancer screening, sex differences in cardiovascular risk profiles, and predictors of survival for prostate cancer patients in Kenya. Through his research and leadership at CHeRi, he is actively working to enhance health service access and tackle health disparities in the Kenya and beyond.
Dr. Peter Eguabor PhD.
Federal university Lafia
Dr. Peter Eguabor is a health economist at the Federal University Lafia, Nigeria, with over 17 years of experience in the pharmaceutical sector. His work focuses on health systems strengthening, public health campaigns, and disease incidence. He also serves as President of the Young Professional Forum in Kano State, mentoring emerging professionals.
Space for Impact
Articles in this Collection
Articles will appear here when they are published.








