It is a stark truth that NCDs contribute to poverty and pose a barrier to fair economic and social development in almost all countries. Exposure to tobacco, unhealthy foods, alcohol and physical inactivity (the risk factors for NCDs) can begin in early childhood and even before birth. It is clear that NCDs are a matter of social justice.

The good news is, we can make a difference.  By acting together - both globally and locally - we can stand up against this injustice.  Join others just like you from around the world and take action!

Do you want to get involved? Below are eight ways you can take action and participate in the NCD Action community:

1. Browse the NCD Action site

NCD Action Network is a social media platform designed to engage users in dialog about a host of NCD issues.  By signing up you are connected to over 500 young people from across the globe who, just like you, are passionate about tackling NCDs. Take a minute to browse the many features of the site including the About NCDs page, the Blog, and the Videos page.  Please note: you can click here to read how you can customize your privacy and communication settings.

2. Invite others to join
Click here to help us spread the message by inviting your colleagues, friends and family to join the NCD Action Network. Tell them about the issues and get them engaged in NCDs.

3. Post a blog
The blog is our most prominent feature and includes various types of posts including recent news articles and responses to global and local events.  It is also used for random and interesting thoughts and serves as a space for generating new ideas as a group.  Click here to post to our blog.

4. Attend / or start a 3rd Thursday group in your city
3rd Thursdays (3T) is a project we began in early 2012 to promote our globally on-line/locally off-line model of community-building  On the 3rd Thursday of each month, groups of our members meet together in person to engage in lively discussion on an NCD relevant topic.  Some groups have even begun to promote campaigns to address locally relevant NCD issues. 3T meetings are an excellent way to network and meet with like-minded people working locally, and to generate new ideas that can be shared with the global network. Click here to find your local 3T group (or start your own).

5. Start or join a group
Click here to visit the groups page and join the group most suited to your interests or location. Don't see a group there you want to join? Become a leader, gather your friends together, and start your own.  The process is simple and takes only minutes.  Once you have started your group you can invite more people to join, start discussions, and post comments.

6. Share your stories
The Stories Project recognizes the power of narrative.  NCDs are a deeply personal fact for many people whether they experience them personally or have family members that do.  These are not just stories of struggle but also of success.  We want to know the stories and faces of NCDs.  Click here to share a story of how NCDs have impacted you on our Stories Project page.

7. Join our facebook group
Click here to join our facebook group!  Many of our members post interesting articles or questions on facebook and we invite you to become part of this lively group as well!

8. Follow us on Twitter
To follow us on Twitter, click here.