SRHIN AFRICA Website
written by: Victor Owolabi
The NCD means Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Non-communicable diseases are diseases that are not spread through infection or through other people but are typically caused by unhealthy behaviors and Non-communicable diseases
are diseases that are not spread through infection or through other people but are
typically caused by unhealthy behaviors.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs account for approximately 71% of Non-communicable diseases including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung disease, are collectively responsible for 74% of all deaths worldwide, more than three-quarters of all NCD deaths, and 86% of the 17 million people who died prematurely, or before reaching 70 years of age, occur in low- and middle-income countries.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), NCDs account for approximately 71% of Non-communicable diseases including heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung disease, are collectively responsible for 74% of all deaths worldwide, more than three-quarters of all NCD deaths, and 86% of the 17 million people who died prematurely, or before reaching 70 years of age, occur in low- and middle-income countries.
RISK FACTORS FOR NCD
Definition of risk factor:
Risk Factors are something that increases risk. especially: something that makes a person more likely to get a particular disease or condition.
Several risk factors contribute to the development of NCDs, most of which are
modifiable through lifestyle changes. These include:
The followings are the importance of early detection and prevention of NCDs
- Unhealthy Diet: Poor nutrition, excessive consumption of processed foods high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, along with insufficient intake of fruits and vegetables.
- Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle with limited physical activity increases the risk of NCDs. Physical inactivity means a lifestyle without regular exercise.
- Tobacco and Alcohol Consumption: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption significantly contribute to NCDs, especially cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to air pollution, harmful chemicals, and other environmental factors can also increase the risk of NCDs.
- Regular health check-ups
- Understanding the family medical history
- Adopting healthy lifestyle practices
The followings are the importance of early detection and prevention of NCDs
- Encouragement of Healthful Lifestyles:
Promoting healthy lifestyle choices is essential in the fight against NCDs. Important elements of NCD prevention include education on balanced meals, the value of exercise, quitting smoking and drinking, stress management, and keeping a healthy weight. - Improving Quality of Life:
NCDs can have a serious adverse effect on a person’s quality of life. People can retain better health, have a more excellent quality of life, and continue to be active and productive for longer periods of time by knowing and managing NCD risk factors. - Reduces Negative Economic Impact:
NCDs place a heavy financial burden on society. Healthcare expenses lost productivity as a result of disease, and the social costs associated with caring for people who have NCDs can put a burden on healthcare systems and hinder economic growth. Early detection and prevention help to sustain a healthy population and to have strong economic power because of the healthy population.
CONCLUSION
We can significantly lessen the burden of NCDs by comprehending the risk-factors, encouraging healthy behaviors, fighting for legislative reforms, and involving communities. Every person has a part to play in this endeavor to improve the planet for both the present and future generations. Together, we can spread knowledge about NCDs and promote change for a future that is healthier and more vibrant.