Comparison of Premature Deaths from Non-Communicable Diseases Among BRICS Countries

Introduction: In 2021, noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) caused over 43 million deaths globally, including 18 million premature deaths. This study compares the progress of BRICS countries towards reducing premature deaths and achieving NCD targets. Methods: Data was gathered from various global health resources and presented in a table summarizing NCD indicator progress. Findings: UAE leads in GDP per capita among BRICS countries and ranks among the top three in universal health coverage (UHC), alongside China and Iran. Russia has the highest crude death rate, while UAE has the lowest probability of premature mortality (9%). Egypt has the highest NCD death rate (795 per 100,000). Ethiopia has the most significant mortality change relative to national income. Egypt has the highest NCD age-standardized death rate at 795 while UAE has the lowest at 329 per 100 000 population in 2019, respectively. Four (China, Indonesia, Iran, and Russia) of the BRICS countries achieved the requirements of conducting the risk factor surveys. Nine of ten BRICS countries have time-bound NCD targets. However, Brazil and Russia excel in vital registration systems. Policy achievements vary among BRICS countries with Brazil leads in tobacco demand reduction. Iran led in alcohol-related actions and UAE and Russia led in reducing unhealthy diets. Policies addressing physical activity awareness lag in several countries, while Iran, Russia and UAE had drug therapy and counseling to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Eight of the 10 BRICS countries had guidelines for Management of Major NCDs. Conclusion: This first comparative study highlights disparities in progress and underscores the need to strengthen health systems and financing models to achieve NCD targets by 2050. It serves as a baseline for evaluating and improving policies across BRICS countries.