Deaths from common illnesses known as non-communicable diseases are said to be at epidemic levels, World Health Organization has warned.

It says that urgent action is needed to prevent 16 million people dying prematurely - before the age of 70 - from diseases including heart and lung disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes.

WHO recommendations contained in a new report encourage governments to meet agreed health targets by 2025.

Low and middle-income countries are worst affected but the UN agency says that rich countries could also benefit from putting in place cheap measures outlined in its report.

Daniel Johnson reports.

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