Non-communicable diseases on the rise, Doctors call for early screening
Ugandans have been urged to go for health screening to find out whether they have non communicable diseases (NCD’s).
Dr. Gerald Mutungi , the commissioner of the Non Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control at the ministry of Health says this will aid in treating the diseases while in their early stages.
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“We are doing screening and it is very important. Once diagnosed early, something can be done to reverse the situation,” DR. Mutungi said.
According to the survey conducted by Makerere University College of health sciences, 40% of deaths in Uganda are due to non communicable diseases.
Uganda, like many developing countries, continues to grapple with the problem of Non- communicable diseases.
Non-communicable diseases are chronic diseases that are either genetic or result from lifestyle decisions. They include; diabetes, heart attack, cancers and many others.
According to Professor Charles Ibingira the principal of Makerere University College of Health Science, many Ugandans are suffering from more than one non-communicable disease, putting a strain on the health system.
“We have realised that non communicable diseases are the biggest danger in this country. Malaria deaths have come down, but people live long only to suffer from NCD’s and end up dying from the NCD’s,” Prof Ibingira said.
Makerere University College of health sciences conducted a survey between March and July 2014 and it reveals that a growing number of Ugandans suffer from cardiac arrest and diabetes.
“We are dealing with a very big problem but which is preventable,” Mutungi said.
While most of the NCD’s can be managed in early stage, Dr Gerald Mutungi, says Ugandans have abandoned seeking medical attention for NCDs which has increased mortality.
Reports from the ministry of health show that adopted lifestyles have also greatly impacted on the burden.
“In some communities, being fat is celebrated but it leads to diseases such as pressure, cardiac arrest. Others drink alcohol until morning and such life style is increasing the burden,” Mutungi said.
The Ministry has therefore partnered with Makerere University college of health sciences to fight NCDs. This two are going to organise a symposium on non communicable diseases between February 12 and 14.
