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Vocabulary: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs)

General women health
The four main types of NCDs are:

  • Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs): Heart attacks, strokes, and hypertension (high blood pressure).

  • Cancers: A group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body.

  • Chronic Respiratory Diseases: Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and other diseases affecting the lungs.

  • Diabetes: A metabolic disorder characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period.

According to the World Health Organization, since 2015, mortality from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Kenya has been on the rise. The age-standardized mortality rate for the four major NCDs — cardiovascular disease, chronic respiratory disease, cancer, and diabetes — exceeded 600 per 100,000 among men and 500 per 100,000 among women.

Despite global efforts to reduce the burden, Kenya has faced significant challenges in its efforts to combat noncommunicable diseases (NCDs):

  • Tobacco and alcohol control. Kenya has troubles in fully implementing and enforcing policies such as taxation, advertising restrictions, and public smoking bans.

  • Reduction in salt/sodium intake. The country is yet to fully implement national strategies to reduce its intake, which is a key factor in preventing hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.

  • Management of raised blood pressure. Access to screening, treatment, and follow-up services remains limited, particularly in rural areas.

  • Physical inactivity. Public health campaigns and infrastructure to encourage physical activity are not properly developed or widespread.

  • Availability of essential medicines and technologies. Different types of treatment of NCDs are not consistently available across all regions of Kenya.

Since the risks of NCDs are comparatively high, we encourage you to take steps to improve the health of your family by:

  • Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol consumption, seeking support to quit if needed.

  • Reduce salt intake by cutting down on processed foods and using herbs for seasoning.

  • Regularly check blood pressure, adopt a healthy diet, exercise daily, and manage stress.

  • Incorporate at least 30 minutes of physical activity into your routine, like walking or cycling.

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