Developing national framework of monitoring and evaluation of non-communicable diseases control and prevention: an experience from Iran

Background: Islamic Republic of Iran, as a country has undergone dramatic and rapid demographical and economic transition leading to increase mortality and morbidity of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs). Furthermore, the prevalence of risk factors of NCDs is at alarming range for the population. In response to this challenge, a number of different high level policies have been developed dealing with NCDs, directly or indirectly. However, the fragmentation of policies makes monitoring of NCDs control difficult. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to develop a comprehensive framework for monitoring and evaluating of NCDs control and prevention. Methods: A qualitative approach with content analysis method was conducted. Components of NCDs monitoring and evaluation framework were extracted and adaptation of components based on requirements of Iran’s health system was made. Results: Based on the proposed framework, the three main components of NCDs surveillance are as follows; 1) monitoring outcomes (morbidity and mortality); 2) monitoring risk factors; and 3) assessing health care system response, which includes national capacity to prevent NCDs. Conclusion: The developed framework is a political tool to strengthen activities to control and prevention of NCD and making more effective inter-sectorial collaboration.