A recent study by the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) has found that non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a growing health challenge in Africa. The study shows that NCDs accounted for 4.7 million deaths across the continent in 2023, representing nearly 45 per cent of all deaths in Africa. This marks a significant increase from 1990, when NCDs accounted for 25 per cent of deaths.
The GBD study reveals that cardiovascular diseases are the leading contributors to NCD-related deaths in Africa. Ischemic heart disease and stroke are the top two causes of death, followed by chronic kidney disease, hypertensive heart disease, and diabetes. These findings highlight the need for early diagnosis, healthier lifestyles, and access to treatment to prevent or manage these conditions.
The study also found that NCDs have a significant impact on individuals, households, and communities. An estimated 263 million disability-adjusted life years in Africa in 2023 were attributed to NCDs. This measure combines years lost through premature death with years lived with illness or disability. Mental and musculoskeletal disorders were among the leading contributors to disability associated with NCDs.
The research points to the role of everyday risk factors in the growing burden of NCDs. More than half of NCD deaths and over a third of NCD-related disability-adjusted life years were linked to modifiable risk factors. High systolic blood pressure accounted for 26.2 per cent of all NCD deaths in Africa, followed by dietary risks at 14.7 per cent and air pollution at 14.2 per cent.
Rising obesity and high blood sugar levels are also raising concerns about the future burden of diabetes and other metabolic diseases. The findings underline the importance of knowing one's blood pressure and blood sugar levels, early diagnosis, and following prescribed treatment. Healthier diets, regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco can also help reduce some risks.
However, prevention cannot rest on individuals alone. Access to screening, affordable medicines, reliable health information, and consistent follow-up care remains essential, particularly in communities where financial constraints and limited health services can delay diagnosis. The study notes that NCD-related deaths more than doubled between 1990 and 2023 in most African countries.
The findings point to the need for stronger prevention and early detection programmes, alongside better access to treatment and long-term care. This will require a concerted effort from governments, healthcare providers, and individuals to address the growing health challenge posed by NCDs in Africa.
Key points
- Cardiovascular diseases are the leading contributors to NCD-related deaths in Africa.
- High systolic blood pressure, dietary risks, and air pollution are major modifiable risk factors contributing to NCD deaths.
- Access to screening, affordable medicines, and reliable health information is essential to prevent and manage NCDs.
