Towards establishing an NCD research agenda

Background: Strategies against the burden of NCDs require well planned and executed research-informed responses. NCD research needs to be contextualized to enable the identification of risk factors, and so chart the way forward for the prevention, treatment and management, despite the financial, social and political factors inherent in health systems of developing countries. Objective: To identify areas of research that will enable the effective strategies for the prevention, treatment and management of NCDs. Methods: NCD-related scientific articles and reports published between 1998 and June 2009 were reviewed. Key results: Research is key for obtaining local and contextualized knowledge on all aspects of effective prevention and management of NCDs. Strengthening of research infrastructure (training, processes and networks), as well as manifestation-specific factors of NCDs (social determinants, health systems and gender factors) are essential components of the NCD research agenda. Conclusions: The NCD research agenda requires resource investment, as well as social and political support.