Overview

Despite positive trends, life expectancy in Serbia is well below the average for the WHO European Region. The probability of dying from one of the main noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) between the ages of 30 and 69 years is 20%. This has significant socioeconomic consequences for the development of the country and calls for an immediate strengthening of the health system to respond to the growing burden of NCDs. Despite significant progress and political commitment in Serbia, the outcomes of NCDs could still be improved. This report reviews the challenges and opportunities facing the health system in Serbia in scaling up core services for the prevention, early diagnosis and management of NCDs. The report also provides examples of good practice in care. Policy recommendations are made for further action, based on the assessment.