Conflict as a macrodeterminant of non-communicable diseases: the experience of Libya

Libya has experienced decades of armed conflict and political instability. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are particularly vulnerable to long-term disruptions in health services and policymaking processes. Conflict indirectly drives the escalating burden of NCDs, which can stoke civic unrest and propagate further violence and political instability. This reciprocal of this vicious feedback loop has been demonstrated by sustained NCD policymaking efforts spanning political factions. Recent data collection, health service reform and NCD guideline development activities that have served East and West populations without distinction are contributing to the building of a collective civic identity. The stability and cooperation fostered by these activities could potentially help to build small but important bridges towards peace; however, we do not have sufficient evidence to confirm a causative association.

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Allen, L. N., M. Aghilla, M. Kak, G. Loffreda, C. E. K. Wild, A. Hatefi, C. H. Herbst, H. El Saeh (2022) Conflict as a macrodeterminant of non-communicable diseases: the experience of Libya. BMJ Global Health 2022;7:e007549. http://dx.doi.org/10.1136/bmjgh-2021-007549