The Thai Health Promotion Foundation: Two Decades of Joint Contributions to Addressing Noncommunicable Diseases and Creating Healthy Populations

Key Messages Despite the global burden of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and evidence that investment in preventive care improves health and is cost effective, per capita spending on preventive care is very low compared to curative care. Prioritizing preventive care strategies to address NCD risk factors requires strong government leadership, supportive legislation and health policies, and multisector interventions. Health promotion foundations that have secure and sustainable funding can be used strategically to address NCD risk factors, complement government spending on preventive care, and contribute to promoting healthy populations. Together with partners, the Thai Health Promotion Foundation, established in 2001 and funded by a 2% levy on tobacco and alcohol, contributed significantly to addressing NCD risk factors. It can serve as a model for other countries.