Health officials in Kasese District have raised concern over a steady rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), warning that hypertension, diabetes and cancer are becoming major public health challenges in both urban and rural communities.
The latest district health statistics for the last quarter of 2025 show that health facilities are managing thousands of patients living with chronic illnesses, placing increasing pressure on an already overstretched healthcare system.
According to the district data, St. Paul Hospital recorded the highest number of active NCD patients at 1,487, followed by Rukoki General Hospital with 1,260. Rwesande Health Centre IV had 497 active patients, Muhokya Health Centre III registered 398, while Nyabirongo Health Centre IV managed 231 patients.
The figures further indicate that most health facilities recorded an increase in active NCD cases between July–September and October–December 2025, reflecting both a growing disease burden and improved screening and diagnosis.
Kasese District Health Officer, Dr. Amon Bwambale, said hypertension remains the most prevalent non-communicable disease in the district, followed by diabetes mellitus, while cancers—particularly breast and cervical cancer—continue to affect many residents and require long-term treatment.
He noted that although lifestyle factors such as unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, tobacco use and harmful alcohol consumption are major contributors to the rising burden of NCDs, genetics also play a significant role.
"People who come from families where hypertension, diabetes or certain cancers are common have a higher chance of developing the same conditions. That is why we encourage those with a family history to undergo regular medical check-ups even when they feel healthy," Dr. Bwambale said.
The District Health Officer also expressed concern over the growing number of patients living with multiple chronic illnesses, noting that many are managing HIV alongside hypertension or diabetes.
"Managing more than one chronic illness is challenging because patients require lifelong medication, regular reviews and continuous monitoring. This also increases the workload on health workers and places additional pressure on health facilities," he explained.
Dr. Bwambale urged residents to prioritize prevention by adopting healthier lifestyles, emphasizing that many non-communicable diseases can be prevented or detected early through simple behavioural changes.
"We encourage people to eat balanced diets rich in fruits and vegetables, reduce the consumption of fried and processed foods, exercise regularly, avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and seek routine medical screening. Early detection greatly improves treatment outcomes," he said.
Health authorities say strengthening community awareness, expanding routine screening services and promoting healthy lifestyles will be critical in slowing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases across Kasese District.
