This module will explore the main risk factors underpinning the global burdens of morbidity and mortality. Non communicable diseases (NCDs) will be especially explored as they currently account for most of the top 10 risk factors for both mortality and morbidity globally The module will draw on key illustrative examples in order to promote the appreciation of the growing global importance of NCDs and the key challenges faced by epidemiologists and public health specialist in studying and controlling these conditions, especially in the presence of a double burden of both communicable and non-communicable disease. It will provide an overview of public health indicators and leading NCD and risk factor causes of death and disability in the world by region, income group or country. These will be discussed comprehensively by examining prevalence and incidence rates, time trends, definitions and assessments in epidemiologic studies, health effects and relative interventions and strategies for control and prevention.