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"It should be noted that although the spread of infectious diseases such as SARS and the current H7N9 bird flu draws most of the public's attention, the biggest disease burden for Chinese people actually comes from non-communicable and chronic diseases, and the threat is mounting," said Yang Gonghuan, a professor with the China CDC and the PUMC.

Liu Yuanli, another PUMC professor, also warned that compared with the achievements in coping with infectious diseases, China still has a long way to go in terms of information-collecting measures and the prevention and control of the inducing factors of non-infectious and chronic diseases.

Moreover, Richard Horton, editor of the medical journal the Lancet, advised China to better detect and manage people's health risks and formulate a national program to address the threats.

Horton also stressed measures to develop healthy personal behaviors among citizens, as these behaviors are largely shaped by society.

Despite efforts to continue to control disease, China faces challenges of increasing concern regarding people's well-being and mental health, he added.

The Chinese government has made great efforts in controlling chronic diseases, but, unfortunately, the results are not satisfying, Yang said.

A more effective solution should include efforts to improve neighborhood clinics, train medical workers, streamline the healthcare system and enhance public awareness, Yang said.

Experts also noted that measures to deal with chronic diseases should not be confined to the medical field, but should also involve other sectors such as housing, social welfare, employment, city planning, industry, environment, education and media.

The two-day symposium was co-organized by the PUMC, the IHME, the Lancet and the U.S.-based China Medical Board.

Medical scientists and policy makers will hold discussions on issues regarding the changes and current situation of the burden of diseases in China and their implications for health policies.

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