Rwanda's National Health Institute (RBC) has urged citizens to undergo regular health check-ups to detect non-communicable diseases early. The call was made during the commemoration of World Heart Day in Nyaruguru district, where a health campaign was conducted. During the campaign, 1,600 residents were tested, and 40% were found to have non-communicable diseases they were unaware of.
According to Dr. Evariste Ntaganda, head of cardiovascular disease monitoring at RBC, the main causes of these diseases include excessive alcohol consumption and poor diet. Those found to have the diseases have been put under monitoring, with some referred to hospitals in Kigali for further treatment. Dr. Ntaganda emphasized the importance of a balanced diet and regular check-ups to prevent and manage these diseases.
The World Heart Day celebrations in Nyaruguru district coincided with the launch of a cardiovascular health campaign. The campaign included free health check-ups and aimed to raise awareness about non-communicable diseases. Residents who participated in the campaign shared their experiences, with some expressing surprise at discovering they had underlying health conditions.
Beatrice Uwamariya, a 54-year-old resident, said she had never thought that poor diet and lifestyle could lead to non-communicable diseases. After being tested, she was advised to adjust her diet and lifestyle to prevent further complications. Another resident, Kanani, was found to have high blood sugar levels and has since started treatment.
The Nyaruguru district authorities have pledged to intensify efforts to combat non-communicable diseases. District Governor Dr. Emmanuel Murwanashyaka said the high prevalence of these diseases was a wake-up call for the district to prioritize health education and awareness campaigns. He encouraged residents to adopt healthy lifestyles and undergo regular health check-ups.
According to the National Institute of Statistics of Rwanda (NISR), non-communicable diseases accounted for 49.5% of all reported deaths in 2025, up from 27.9% in 2019. The institute's report also showed that communicable diseases decreased from 70% in 2019 to 40% in 2025. The trend indicates a significant shift in the country's disease burden.
Health officials attribute the increasing trend of non-communicable diseases to lifestyle factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption. They emphasize the need for a multi-faceted approach to address these diseases, including health education, awareness campaigns, and access to healthcare services. The government and health stakeholders are working together to develop strategies to combat the growing burden of non-communicable diseases.
Key points
- 40% of 1,600 residents tested in Nyaruguru district had non-communicable diseases.
- Non-communicable diseases accounted for 49.5% of all reported deaths in Rwanda in 2025.
- Health officials urge citizens to adopt healthy lifestyles and undergo regular health check-ups to prevent and manage non-communicable diseases.
