# Rising noncommunicable disease burden in Africa > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/rising-noncommunicable-disease-burden-in-africa > Updated: 2026-09-08T08:14:47.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. Africa is undergoing a significant epidemiological transition as noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) become a primary health challenge. While the region has historically focused on infectious diseases, NCDs such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer are rising due to urbanization, demographic shifts, and dietary changes. Data from the World Health Organization indicates that NCDs accounted for 24% of deaths in the African region in 2000, a figure that rose to 37% by 2019. Cardiovascular diseases are currently the leading cause of NCD-related mortality, representing 13% of all deaths on the continent. Projections suggest that the number of people living with diabetes in Africa could reach 55 million by 2045. Addressing this shift requires a move toward preventative care and more resilient health systems. While communal resources are often heavily mobilized for funerals, experts note a difficulty in mobilizing similar devotion for nutrition and health screenings. To combat the rising burden, the PEN-Plus model is being implemented in 20 countries to expand specialized care for severe chronic conditions, such as sickle cell disease and type 1 diabetes, to district hospitals. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-08: Africa faces rising burden of noncommunicable diseases African health systems are transitioning to address a surge in noncommunicable diseases, with NCDs now causing 37% of regional deaths. Initiatives like the PEN-Plus model are expanding specialized care. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/africa-faces-rising-burden-of-noncommunicable-diseases ### 2026-08-24: African health priorities shift toward preventative care An analysis of African health trends highlights the need to shift communal resources from funeral expenses toward preventative healthcare and better nutrition to combat rising noncommunicable diseases. 3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/african-health-priorities-shift-toward-preventative-care --- Cite as: Rising noncommunicable disease burden in Africa. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/rising-noncommunicable-disease-burden-in-africa