Non-communicable diseases have become a significant health concern in Tanzania, accounting for approximately 39% of all deaths in the country. According to Chief Government Medical Officer Prof. Bruno Sunguya, the public is urged to undergo regular health check-ups to identify early warning signs and take timely preventive measures. This initiative aims to raise awareness and encourage people to understand their health status.
Prof. Sunguya made the remarks while issuing a public statement on non-communicable diseases in the country under the theme, “Know Your Numbers, Take Action, Save Lives.” The theme builds on the ZiJue Namba Zako (Know Your Numbers) campaign, launched in May 2026 by Health Minister Mohamed Omary Mchengerwa. The campaign aims to raise public awareness and encourage people to undergo health screenings, identify risk factors, and take early action to prevent non-communicable diseases.
Some of the non-communicable diseases contributing to Tanzania's disease burden include diabetes, high blood pressure, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, sickle cell disease, mental health conditions, drug addiction, certain eye, oral, and dental diseases, as well as injuries. Prof. Sunguya highlighted the importance of monitoring key health indicators, including obesity, blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL), commonly known as bad cholesterol.
The public is advised to monitor their blood pressure, with a reading above 140/90 mmHg indicating a potential health risk. Additionally, blood glucose levels exceeding 7 mmol/L after fasting for more than eight hours, or reaching 11 mmol/L and above at any time during testing, may also indicate a health risk. Prof. Sunguya also emphasized the importance of monitoring LDL levels, noting that levels above 2.4 mmol/L may indicate a health risk.
The campaign also includes screening for breast cancer, cervical cancer, and sickle cell genetic traits, with the aim of supporting early detection and prevention. The government has directed health professionals to provide screening services, educate communities, and create an enabling environment to improve public access to these services. The campaign activities are being conducted across all regions of the country.
Prof. Sunguya emphasized that early detection and prevention of non-communicable diseases are crucial in reducing the country's disease burden. By encouraging the public to undergo regular health check-ups, the government aims to break the intergenerational cycle of sickle cell disease and reduce the incidence of other non-communicable diseases.
The government is working to improve public access to screening services, education, and community outreach programs. By taking proactive measures, Tanzanians can reduce their risk of developing non-communicable diseases and improve their overall health and well-being.
Key points
- Non-communicable diseases account for 39% of all deaths in Tanzania.
- The government has launched a campaign to encourage regular health check-ups and early detection of non-communicable diseases.
- Key health indicators to monitor include blood pressure, blood glucose levels, and levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
