Four non-communicable diseases, namely hypertension, type 2 diabetes, respiratory diseases, and cardiovascular diseases, are the leading causes of premature deaths in Tunisia. According to Dr. Rached Hamzaoui, these diseases account for over 80% of premature deaths and 86% of all deaths in the country. This alarming statistic highlights the need for increased awareness and prevention efforts.
The 9th National Congress of the Tunisian Society of General Medicine and Family Medicine, held in Mahdia, focused on the theme of non-communicable diseases and innovative prevention strategies. Dr. Hamzaoui emphasized that these diseases pose a significant economic and social burden on families and the community, and that prevention is crucial in saving lives and reducing healthcare costs.
Dr. Hamzaoui also highlighted the important role of general practitioners in detecting early signs of disease, guiding patients, and raising awareness about the risks of neglecting prevention. He noted that non-communicable diseases can often be preceded by detectable signs, and that early intervention can help prevent or manage these conditions.
The congress also saw the launch of a new study aimed at identifying the different stages of prediabetes, which will be followed by a discussion on intervention and prevention strategies. Additionally, several innovations were presented, including a digital medical cabinet equipped with connected devices that allow patients to measure various health parameters and transmit the results to their doctors.
The digital medical cabinet, explained Dr. Mohamed Haythem Haj Salah, treasurer of the Tunisian Society of General Medicine and Family Medicine, enables patients to take their own measurements, which are then transmitted electronically to a dedicated platform. This platform also allows patients to schedule appointments with specialists, reducing waiting times and travel, particularly for those living in remote areas.
According to Dr. Haj Salah, this innovation has the potential to contribute to the development of medical tourism in Tunisia, allowing visitors to schedule appointments with specialists before their arrival and transmit their medical results in advance. The device could also be particularly useful in the fight against viral epidemics and the management of chronic diseases.
The emphasis on prevention and early intervention is crucial in addressing the burden of non-communicable diseases in Tunisia. With the right strategies and tools, the country can work towards reducing the impact of these diseases and improving the health and well-being of its citizens.
Key points
- Non-communicable diseases account for over 80% of premature deaths in Tunisia.
- The Tunisian Society of General Medicine and Family Medicine is launching a study on prediabetes and exploring innovative prevention strategies.
- A digital medical cabinet has been developed to enable patients to measure health parameters and transmit results to their doctors.
