Events
INSIGHTS: Empowering Communities with Innovative Solutions for Non Communicable Diseases
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), especially hypertension and diabetes, are not just concerns for the elderly, as we might perceive; significantly, young people are also impacted by these conditions. In Nigeria, approximately 30% of adults are affected by hypertension and diabetes, making these diseases among the most prevalent non-communicable diseases in the world. Unfortunately, access to quality and affordable healthcare for these conditions remains a significant issue.
The 25th episode of the Insight Webinar, titled “Empowering Communities with Innovative Solutions for Non-Communicable Diseases,” featured experts in community health medicine who have implemented innovative interventions to address hypertension and diabetes in Nigerian communities.
The panelists raised concerns about the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with special attention to diabetes and hypertension, which account for a significant portion of global morbidity and mortality. They also discussed the importance of community-driven approaches in managing and preventing NCDs, spotlighting eHealth’s “Africa’s Digitizing for Impact: Improving Rural Access to Integrated Services for NCDs in Nigeria” (DIIAN) project.
Additionally, they highlighted strategies that empower local populations to take control of their health and provided important health tips for preventing NCDs. These include adherence to medication, lifestyle modification, proper dieting, health awareness and education, and access to nutritious food.
The webinar concluded with a call for collaboration between governments, private sector stakeholders, and communities to promote sustainable and scalable solutions. Participants were encouraged to continue fostering partnerships that bridge the gap between healthcare innovations and the people most affected by NCDs.
Moderator:
Moshood Isah – Communications Coordinator, eHealth Africa
Panelists;
Lucy Okoye – Program Manager, eHealth Africa
Dr Nura Abubakar; The Coordinator, Non-Communicable Disease, State Ministry of Health Kano State, Nigeria
Dr Ronke Akande – Consultant Physician in Public Health and Community Medicine.
