The Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC) has launched a campaign to raise awareness about heart health, urging citizens to adopt regular physical exercise and undergo medical check-ups to prevent heart diseases and other non-communicable diseases. This initiative was announced during World Heart Day celebrations in Nyaruguru District, where the theme "Protect Your Heart Health" was emphasized. The event aimed to educate residents on the importance of preventive measures against heart-related conditions.
As part of the campaign, RBC conducted a week-long screening exercise for non-communicable diseases, including heart-related conditions, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar. A total of 1,169 residents participated in the screening, with 88 individuals (7.5%) diagnosed with heart disease, 481 (40%) with high blood pressure, and 55 (5%) with high blood sugar levels. The results also showed that 545 people had no heart-related conditions. The screening provided an opportunity for residents to understand their health status and the significance of prevention.
The campaign was welcomed by residents, including Mukiiza Didier, a Nyaruguru resident, who encouraged young people to make physical exercise and regular health checks part of their routine. He emphasized that such initiatives help individuals stay fit and healthy, understand their health status, and prevent illnesses. Didier's sentiments were echoed by Nyaruguru District Mayor, Dr. Emmanuel Murwanashyaka, who highlighted the district's efforts to prevent non-communicable diseases through a monthly community sports program.
The community sports program, which takes place every third week of the month, aims to promote physical activity and provide a platform for residents to undergo health screenings. During these sessions, participants are screened, and those diagnosed with illnesses are encouraged to start treatment early. According to Murwanashyaka, the program has increased awareness among residents about the risks associated with non-communicable diseases.
Dr. Evariste Ntaganda, Director of the Cardiovascular Diseases Department at RBC, highlighted the major risk factors for heart disease, including obesity, high blood pressure, and physical inactivity. He warned that cardiovascular diseases can develop silently, with some patients only discovering their condition after serious complications have occurred. Ntaganda emphasized the need for citizens to undergo regular medical check-ups to detect potential health problems early.
According to an RBC study conducted in Nyaruguru District, 43% of Rwandans aged 18 to 69 have high blood pressure, a significant cardiovascular risk factor. Health officials are therefore encouraging residents to adopt healthier lifestyles, exercise regularly, monitor their blood pressure, and seek medical attention early when health problems are detected. The RBC is working to raise awareness about the risks associated with non-communicable diseases and promote preventive measures.
The RBC's initiative aims to address the rising cases of heart disease in Rwanda, which is no longer a problem affecting only older people, but also young individuals exposed to risk factors linked to unhealthy lifestyles. By promoting regular exercise, medical check-ups, and healthy lifestyles, the RBC hopes to reduce the incidence of heart diseases and other non-communicable diseases in the country.
Key points
- The Rwanda Biomedical Center screened 1,169 residents for non-communicable diseases, with 88 individuals diagnosed with heart disease.
- The district of Nyaruguru has established a monthly community sports program to promote physical activity and prevent non-communicable diseases.
- A study by RBC found that 43% of Rwandans aged 18 to 69 have high blood pressure, a significant cardiovascular risk factor.
