…… Urgent action needed to prevent further loss of lives
By Fatima Saka
Non-Communicable Diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancers, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, sickle cell disease, and mental health disorders, have emerged as a significant threat to public health in Nigeria, as disclosed by Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, on Thursday in Abuja, during the introduction of the NCD Documents.
Professor Pate expressed deep concern that these conditions contribute to 27% of all annual fatalities in Nigeria, amounting to approximately 447,800 lives lost each year.
He emphasized that a substantial number of these deaths occur prematurely, between the ages of 30 and 70, underscoring the critical need for immediate intervention to prevent further loss of lives.
The minister, represented by Daju Kachollom mni, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, pointed out that NCDs are exacerbating due to demographic and epidemiological transitions, alongside the adoption of unhealthy behaviors such as tobacco consumption, alcohol use, poor dietary habits, and lack of physical activity, as he unveiled the documents.
Professor Pate highlighted that a majority of NCD risk factors are avoidable.
In addressing these pressing concerns, the Ministry has developed a comprehensive response encapsulated in several key policy documents, including:
– The National Policy for the Prevention and Control of NCDs in Nigeria.
– The National NCD Task-Shifting and Task-Sharing (NTSTS) Policy.
– The National Guideline for the Prevention and Management of Hypertension in Nigeria.
– The National Tobacco Control Strategic Plan of Action (2024 – 2028).
Newsletter for People Living with NCDs (PLWNCDs).
– National Mental Health Policy.
The Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette – Fats, Oils, and Food Containing Fats & Oils Regulations 2022.
The unveiling of these publications marks a pivotal step in our nation’s journey towards a healthier future. These documents serve not only as guidelines but as catalysts for change that will influence our healthcare practices and policies for years to come, as emphasized by Pate.
He further noted that globally, countries that have implemented comprehensive NCD strategies have witnessed remarkable enhancements in public health outcomes, citing the example of Finland’s successful “North Karelia Project” in the 1970s, which focused on reducing cardiovascular disease through community-based interventions, resulting in a 70% decrease in coronary heart disease mortality over 25 years. “Closer to home, South Africa’s national salt reduction program has significantly decreased the population’s salt intake, contributing to a reduction in hypertension prevalence.
“In Nigeria, these publications align with our broader objectives under the NHSRII and the Renewed Hope Agenda. By providing clear, evidence-based guidelines and fostering a culture of accountability and excellence, we are empowering our healthcare providers to deliver superior care and encouraging our communities to proactively adopt healthier lifestyles.
“Furthermore, we are enhancing cancer diagnosis and treatment infrastructure in six federal teaching hospitals, thereby strengthening our capacity to combat NCDs. The retraining of 120,000 frontline health workers is also underway, equipping them with the latest skills and knowledge to address evolving healthcare needs.
“The federal government remains steadfast in expanding access to quality NCD services, improving health insurance coverage, and supporting local production of essential medicines.
“We are committed to prioritizing the effective implementation of these policies to ensure that our endeavors translate into tangible enhancements in the health and well-being of all Nigerians.
“As we progress in our battle against NCDs, I applaud all individuals living with these conditions, as well as those dedicated to educating and supporting them. Your resilience and commitment are indispensable to our collective triumph.”
The coordinating Minister highlighted the visionary leadership of His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and in alignment with the Renewed Hope Agenda, “ our administration is unwavering in its commitment to enhancing health outcomes for all Nigerians. This agenda, which prioritizes health and well-being, guides us as we strive to achieve the health-related Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being.”
He also praised the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, the National Health Insurance Authority, and other government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and private sector stakeholders.
“Your unwavering support has been pivotal in our progress, and together, we will continue to build a healthier and more prosperous Nigeria,” Professor Pate reiterated.
Speaking on the World Health Organisation (WHO) Nigeria Country Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, lauded the Minister and his team for their exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to the prevention and management of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs).
He emphasized that NCDs are the primary cause of mortality globally, disproportionately affecting countries with lower and moderate income levels.
Dr. Mulombo announced that the WHO would be expanding its assistance, originally initiated in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to an additional four states.
Furthermore, he expressed a strong commitment to vigorously promote NCD prevention and control programs in these states, setting a precedent for others to emulate.
