Africa faces rising burden of noncommunicable diseases

African nations are facing a significant epidemiological transition as noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) become a primary health challenge. While the region has historically focused on infectious diseases like HIV/AIDS, malaria, and Ebola, NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer are rising rapidly due to urbanization, dietary changes, and demographic shifts.

World Health Organization data indicates that NCDs accounted for 37% of deaths in the African region in 2019, up from 24% in 2000. Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of NCD-related mortality, representing 13% of all deaths on the continent. Projections suggest a massive increase in diabetes cases, with the number of people living with the condition in Africa expected to reach 55 million by 2045.

To combat this, health experts and the WHO are advocating for a shift toward more preventive and resilient health systems. The PEN-Plus model is being implemented in 20 countries to expand life-saving care for severe chronic conditions. This initiative has already brought specialized services for sickle cell disease, type 1 diabetes, and severe heart disease to over 120 district hospitals, providing ongoing care to more than 170,000 patients.