Six of 10 people here die of Non-Communicable Diseases
BY EDDIE OSIFELO
NON-COMMUNICABLE diseases such as diabetes, heart and respiratory diseases, cancers and mental illnesses have reached a crisis point, with 40 percent of hospital beds being taken up by NCD patients.
This was highlighted in the National Health Strategic Plan 2022-2031 launched in Honiara last week.
The report says more than 6 out of 10 deaths, or approximately 70 percent of deaths in the country, are attributable to NCDs.
“Therefore, the prevention and control of NCDs is a priority in this strategic plan that demands a whole of society response, with engagement from all relevant agencies and organizations and communities,” the report says.
Furthermore, the report says NCDs require a whole of government and whole of society approach to be effective; our response cannot rely solely on one programme.
“It will require all parts of the health sector to work together to address this health crisis.
“Preventive measures will address several risk factors,” report says.
Further to that, the report says other measures will require us to collaborate with other sectors, including education, trade and agriculture, and key influencers such as churches.
“We will need different tools to modify behaviours, including legislation and taxation,” the report says.
Moreover, the report says they will need to ensure they provide services for the most vulnerable groups.
“We need to review and overhaul services and support for persons with disability, and investigate the potential to provide rehabilitative services for this group and those experiencing amputation due to diabetes complications.
“Increased attention should also be paid to sexual and reproductive health services in the provinces, including adolescent sexual health,” the report says.
Most importantly, the report says health promotion information and services must be provided to the target audience in the most appropriate language.
