Charity, Rohan, Alan and Vijayalakshimy are four individuals who live in different parts of the world, yet have much in common. They all live with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and navigate the challenges of managing their conditions on a daily basis. Now, the COVID-19 pandemic has made their reality even more severe.  

Produced by BBC StoryWorks and possible thanks to NCD Alliance’s partnership with Access Accelerated, this new mini-film offers a candid view into the lives of four advocates living with a diverse range of NCDs from bipolar disorder, diabetes, cancer to kidney disease. The challenges they face include a lack of access to treatment to coping with the emotional burden that often accompanies a long-term health condition. 

During the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become more challenging for them and other people living with NCDs around the globe to manage their health due to restrictions in movement, disruption to health services, as well as fear of seeking treatment due to the risk of contracting COVID-19.

More than one in five people globally have at least one underlying health condition that puts them at increased risk of severe of COVID-19 if infected. A majority of them are people living with NCDs. Their expertise can help us secure a safe, healthy and sustainable future for all.