Noncommunicable diseases, or NCDs, kill an approximated 41 million people each year, according to the United Nations. This is particularly important because much of these deaths can be prevented.

The latest numbers show that 71 percent of all worldwide deaths are made up of NCDs such as cancer, respiratory issues or diabetes. Fifteen percent of those who die from them are between the ages of 30 and 69. Of the NCD deaths, a staggering 85 percent are in low or middle-income countries.

Following a meeting on the subject at the U.N., Dr. Timothy Harris, who is the Prime Minister of Saint Kitts and Nevis, told CGTN that it is incumbent on countries such as the United States to provide “leadership and support” for other countries when it comes to preventing NCDs.

During the UNGA73, a coalition of nations from across the globe met and recommitted themselves to fighting NCDs in all of their forms.

Even if the United States makes changes “within its own society, it will be doing a significant benefit to the world,” Harris, who is also the Head for Health and Human Development in the CARICOM Quasi Cabinet, said. This is particularly important because the United States is a large exporter to the Carribean region, Harris said, “so they should be paying attention to their food consumptions” and habits.