Mayor Sala Commits to a Healthier, Safer Milan by Joining Global Network of Cities

March 7 2024 (Milan, Italy) – Mayor Giuseppe Sala announced today that Milan has joined the Partnership for Healthy Cities, a prestigious global network of more than 70 cities committed to saving lives by preventing noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) — such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes — and injuries.

“As the rates of preventable disease and injuries continue to rise globally, we must act now to confront this crisis,” said Mayor Sala. “I am proud that Milan will join the Partnership for Healthy Cites network. Milan strives to protect both the environment and the health of Milanese people through ambitious policies that support a healthier city and quality of life. As part of the network, we will be able to propel our efforts to ensure healthier lives for our residents.”

NCDs and injuries are responsible for more than 80% of all deaths globally. With the majority of the global population in urban settings, protecting the health and well-being of residents is crucial. Cities and their leaders are well positioned to transform the fight against NCDs and injuries by implementing policies that significantly reduce exposure to risk factors.

“Through the Partnership for Healthy Cities, local leaders around the world are helping improve public health and save lives – and today, we are glad to welcome Milan to this growing global network,” said Michael R. Bloomberg, founder of Bloomberg LP and Bloomberg Philanthropies, WHO Global Ambassador for Noncommunicable Diseases and Injuries, and 108th mayor of New York City. “Milan has shown it is committed to implementing policies that protect the health and safety of millions of people, and our team looks forward to supporting its work – and helping it spread to even more cities worldwide.”

The burden of NCDs and injuries on global development is immense. Roughly 86% of NCD deaths that are considered premature occur in low- and middle-income countries and unintentional injuries take the lives of over 3 million people worldwide every year.

Progress is attainable: a framework to significantly reduce exposure to NCD and injury risk factors already exists—and can be swiftly implemented in urban areas. Through the Partnership for Healthy Cities, cities commit to one of 14 proven interventions, such as implementing smoke-free laws that protect residents from secondhand smoke, creating cycling routes safe for all road users or restricting advertising for the sugary drinks and junk foods that negatively impact urban diets.

The Partnership is supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) and the global health organization Vital Strategies.

“The Partnership for Healthy Cities is demonstrating that with the right plans and policies, mayors and city councils can make a huge difference to the health of their residents, every day,” said Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, World Health Organization Director-General. 

“Cities have long served as drivers of improved public health,” said José Luis Castro, President and CEO, Vital Strategies. “We applaud the efforts of city leaders working to create healthier and stronger urban centers where residents can thrive. We welcome Milan to the Partnership and are eager to support their efforts creating systemic, lasting change improving health around the world.”

For more information on the Partnership for Healthy Cities and to view the full list of 14 interventions, visit cities4health.org or bloomberg.org.

Media Contact:
comunicazione.ufficiostampa@comune.milano.it