Copenhagen • 1 September 2025
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) remain the world’s leading cause of preventable death, yet pharmacists are still underutilised in tackling this global crisis, according to a new Statement of Policy released today by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP).
Reaffirming commitments made under the Astana Declaration and the FIP Practice Transformation Programme on NCDs, this updated policy reflects the latest evidence on the global impact of chronic diseases and highlights the vital role pharmacists play in prevention, early detection, treatment optimisation and ongoing care.
“We face an unprecedented challenge from conditions such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, respiratory illness and mental health disorders, many of which can be prevented or better managed with the right interventions,” said Mr Daragh Connolly, chair, Board of Pharmaceutical Practice and co-chair of the policy committee. “Pharmacists are among the most accessible healthcare professionals worldwide, but their contribution remains undervalued in many health systems. This statement is a renewed call for action to change that.”
The statement outlines how pharmacists support patients at every stage, leading risk-factor screening, providing lifestyle counselling, managing complex medicines regimens, and coordinating care as part of interprofessional teams. In many communities, especially underserved areas, pharmacists are often the first and sometimes only point of care for people living with chronic conditions.
It also highlights the need to tackle social and economic inequalities that contribute to the global NCD burden and calls for better use of digital tools and data-sharing to strengthen prevention, monitoring and treatment.
FIP’s updated recommendations urge governments and policymakers to fully integrate pharmacists into national NCD strategies, expand their scope of practice, ensure fair remuneration for pharmacist-provided services and invest in workforce development to meet rising healthcare demands.
“FIP has developed practical resources and training to equip pharmacists in managing these conditions, but we need supportive policies and funding to ensure these services reach those who need them most,” said Ms Ema Paulino, co-chair of the policy committee.
The statement also calls on pharmacy organisations, educators and the pharmaceutical industry to align efforts by developing practice guidelines, promoting evidence-based interventions and fostering research to demonstrate the value of pharmacist-led care.
Through this policy, FIP and its member organisations reaffirm their commitment to the WHO Global Action Plan on NCDs and universal health coverage — working together to reduce the global burden of chronic diseases, improve patient outcomes and strengthen sustainable health systems.
Notes for editors
About FIP
The International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) is the global federation of national associations of pharmacists, pharmaceutical scientists and pharmacy educators, and is in official relations with the World Health Organization. Through its 157 member organisations, it represents over four million practitioners and scientists around the world. www.fip.org
PRESS CONTACT
Laila Ghorab
Communications Manager
International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP)
Email laila@fip.org