Time to Rename Non-Communicable Disease as a Socio-Communicable Disease?

Abstract

In the context of rising non-communicable disease and its risk factors, the socio-behavioural role has become important. The nomenclature of the group of these diseases might not be sufficient to influence the socio-behavioural, cultural, economic section to have a long-term change in the burden. The management policy and strategy largely remained at individual level focussing on the disease course and its complication. The purpose of this commentary was an attempt to propose the renaming of ‘non-communicable’ disease group with a vision to increase the emphasis at individual, society and policy levels. There are already several proposals arised such as ‘socially transmitted disease’ and ‘lifelong disease’. We hereby propose to rename the non-communicable diseases as ‘socially communicable’ diseases which emphasise the share of the social drivers at a population level. It has the potential to create a positive notion amongst the population that it is transmissible and also it shows an inclusive approach of what it consists of. On the other hand, the present communicable or infectious disease can be renamed as ‘bio-communicable’ diseases. Revising the surrounding environment of a community, adopting a sustainable policy towards positive influence in every sector of development will help people to adopt and practice healthy behavioural patterns at the individual as well as at the community level.