Lifestyle Medicine can reduce the growing burden of non-communicable diseases in global health contextsLifestyle Medicine Could Ease Global Disease Burden

IntroductionLifestyle Medicine (LM) is an evidence-based discipline focused on preventing, managing, and reversing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) through the adoption of healthy lifestyle behaviors. Recognizing its potential to reshape clinical practice and inform public health policy, the Doha Declaration on LM advocates for urgent and systematic integration of LM into healthcare systems worldwide.MethodsA consensus meeting was held by an expert panel of 26 global LM professionals, the findings and recommendations of which are documented in this white paper.ResultsThe white paper explores the implications of LM for global health outcomes, economic sustainability, and population well-being. It highlights the strategic importance of including LM into medical education, clinical guidelines and health governance frameworks. Furthermore, it identifies key challenges to implementation and proposes actionable solutions to advance LM as a cornerstone of equitable and sustainable healthcare delivery worldwide.ConclusionThis white paper, based on the recommendations of the Doha Declaration on LM, demonstrates that LM can reduce the growing burden of NCDs. However, for LM to make a meaningful impact, it needs to be incorporated into healthcare systems and educational programs, and be supported by policies that align with local cultures, resources, and practices. These combined efforts can help address unhealthy behaviors, and the underlying factors that influence disease risk and health outcomes.