In the Cook Islands a third of all adults has a non-communicable disease and health authorities are this week trying to make people aware of the threat.
Diabetes awareness sign in Rarotonga, Cook islands Photo: RNZI/Sally Round
According to the Ministry of Health, NCDs were the main cause of death in the Cook Islands in the past five years, causing 78 percent of deaths in 2014.
This week the ministry urged everyone to take advantage of an NCD awareness programme being held at Maire Nui park in Avarua.
The week long programme includes health assessments, exercise, the planting of healthy food crops and cooking demonstrations.