Signal Non-communicable diseases account for 78.1 percent of deaths and 84.5 percent of medical spending in Korea

Summary

The non-communicable disease overview reports that Koreans spend 12.2 percent of their lifetime in ill health from disease or injury, and that about 80 percent of deaths are caused by these diseases. More precisely, non-communicable diseases account for 78.1 percent of all deaths, according to the survey's current-status section. The medical-use rate for hypertension, diabetes and dyslipidaemia reached 32.2 percent in 2024 and has been rising steadily. These diseases also make up 84.5 percent of total medical expenses, a burden that can reduce national productivity and weigh on the economy. The survey reads the figures as evidence that the chronic-disease burden is continuing to expand.