Step up NGO's role in fighting NCDs in Africa

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have become the leading cause of death globally, accounting for 41 million deaths annually, with the majority occurring in low- and middle-income countries.

This growing burden is particularly evident in Sub-Saharan Africa, where NCDs, including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental health issues, are rising.

In Kenya, over 50 per cent of hospital admissions and deaths are attributed to NCDs, which pose a severe threat to the already strained healthcare systems. The economic impact of NCDs in poor countries is staggering. These diseases are expected to cost over $7 trillion in the next 15 years due to decreased productivity and increased healthcare costs. For countries like Kenya, where NCD treatment places significant financial strain on both households and the national economy, this situation is unsustainable.

The costs of managing chronic illnesses and the premature deaths associated with NCDs hinder economic growth and reduce overall productivity, making it imperative to take action now before the situation deteriorates further.

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Fortunately, NCDs are largely preventable. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), eliminating common risk factors like tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption could prevent up to 80 per cent of heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes, and over a third of cancers. Several cost-effective interventions, often referred to as “best buys,” include increasing taxes on tobacco and alcohol, reducing salt intake, eliminating trans fats from food, promoting physical activity, and supporting early detection and treatment of NCDs.

Mauritius offers an example of how these preventive measures can work. Implementing national programs to limit salt intake, promote physical activity, and enforce smoke control laws has seen significant reductions in the prevalence and mortality rates of NCDs. This highlights the importance of governmental commitment and the positive impact that preventive measures can have on controlling NCDs. Amref Health Africa has been at the forefront of combating NCDs in Sub-Saharan Africa through a comprehensive approach. Their strategy focuses on three key pillars: Empowered People and Communities, Integrated Health Services, and Multi-sector Policy and Action.

The first pillar, Empowered People and Communities, recognises that health begins at home. Amref fosters community-led health initiatives by promoting behavior change and increasing health awareness. For example, the Wellness Festival held in February 2020 focused on family wellness and resulted in a significant increase in health knowledge among participants.

Community Health Promoters (CHPs) have also played a critical role in raising awareness about NCD prevention through door-to-door campaigns and community gatherings, particularly in countries like Uganda. These grassroots efforts are important in preventing NCDs at the community level.

The second pillar, Integrated Health Services, involves incorporating NCD interventions into basic healthcare services. Amref’s Facility-Community Chronic Care (F3C) model offers comprehensive care from screening and early diagnosis to treatment and chronic disease management. Through this model, Amref has screened over 1.2 million individuals for hypertension, diagnosed over 60,000 cases, and provided long-term treatment solutions.

The third pillar, Multi-sector Policy and Action, emphasizes the importance of collaboration across sectors to promote NCD prevention and control. Amref works with businesses and government entities to advocate for policies that address NCD risk and promote healthy lifestyles.

The fight against NCDs in Sub-Saharan Africa requires a concerted effort from non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Amref Health Africa’s strategy sets a strong precedent for success, demonstrating that the right interventions can make a significant difference. NGOs must prioritise NCDs in their agendas, utilising their resources and influence to adopt preventive measures and support integrated healthcare.