Chronic diseases (ChrD) are lifelong conditions that have long-term effects. They account for 41 million deaths annually (71% of all deaths world-wide) [1]. The rising prevalence of ChrD is challenging individually and at a population level because they are the main causes of adverse events, disability, frailty, death, and health care expenditures [2]. In 2012, 38 million people worldwide lost their lives to ChrD, however 42% (16 million) were premature and avoidable [1]. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized this challenge and therefore endorsed a set of actions around a global action plan spanning 2013 to 2020 for the prevention and control of ChrD [3].
