Nigeria Launches National Documents To Prevent, Control Non-Communicable Diseases

The Federal Government has introduced six national documents to improve the prevention, control and overall response to non-communicable diseases (NCD) in Nigeria.

The launch, titled "Revitalizing NCD Prevention and Control in Nigeria: Strengthening Multisectoral Collaboration," on Thursday showed the government's commitment to addressing a major public health issue in the country.

During the launch of the publications in Abuja, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Professor Muhammad Ali Pate highlighted that countries with strong NCD strategies have achieved major improvements in public health.

The minister further said that non-communicable diseases cause 27% of all annual deaths in Nigeria, which was about 447,800 lives lost each year.

"Many of these deaths are premature, occurring between the ages of 30 and 70, highlighting the urgency of our intervention," he said, Premium Times reported. He also noted that changes in the population and disease patterns worsen these challenges.

"By providing clear, evidence-based guidelines and fostering a culture of accountability and excellence, we are empowering our healthcare providers to deliver better care and our communities to take proactive steps towards healthier lifestyles," he added.

The six policy documents include:

• National Policy for the Prevention and Control of Communicable Diseases
• National NCD Task-Shifting and Task-Sharing Policy
• National Guideline for Preventing and Managing Hypertension
• National Tobacco Control Strategic Plan of Action (2024 to 2028)
• Newsletter for People Living with NCDs (PLWNCDs)
• Federal Republic of Nigeria Official Gazette – Fats, Oils, & Food Containing Fats & Oils Regulations 2022

He also gave examples such as Finland's "North Karelia Project" from the 1970s, which aimed to reduce heart disease through community efforts and resulted in a 70% decrease in heart disease deaths over 25 years.

The minister noted that South Africa's national salt reduction program has significantly reduced the population's salt intake, leading to lower rates of high blood pressure.

Authorities have started training 120,000 frontline health workers in new skills and knowledge to address changing healthcare needs.

The federal government said it was also dedicated to improving access to quality NCD services, increasing health insurance coverage, and supporting local production of essential medicines.