There was extensive debate on the strategy during the Health Assembly, and a drafting group met for two days to agree upon amendments to the resolution adopting the strategy. These included the addition of paragraphs to address concerns expressed by some Member States that nothing in the strategy should be construed as justification for the adoption of trade-restrictive or trade distorting practices; to reaffirm that the strategy complements WHO's strong commitment to addressing malnutrition, and to reaffirm that appropriate levels of intakes for energy, nutrients and foods should be determined in accordance with national guidelines and dietary habits and practices.

"Noncommunicable diseases are imposing a growing burden upon low and middle-income countries, which have limited resources and are still struggling to meet the challenges of existing problems with infectious diseases," said Dr Catherine Le Gal s-Camus, WHO Assistant-Director General, Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health. "The strategy recommends a prevention-oriented approach that emphasizes the need for countries to develop coherent, multi-sectoral national strategies with a long-term, sustainable perspective, to make the healthy choices the preferred alternatives at both the individual and community level. We welcome the commitment shown by Member States to the strategy and will be working closely with them to help them implement its recommendations."