Such illnesses include cancer, diabetes, psychological disorders, and cardiovascular and lung disease, and are related to factors such as lack of exercise, pollution, and unhealthy diets that are now known to make a larger impact on people's lives in the developing world.
Though sometimes approached separately, NCDs can work in conjunction with infectious diseases leading to even higher mortality rates. In a medical study published last month, Dr. Bongani Mayosi of the University of Cape Town's Department of Medicine and a group of experts described the occurrence of this trend in South Africa - noted not only for its growing economy but also its large professional medical base and facilities - and possible step's forward for the nation. Mayosi agrees that the South African government has taken solid action, and though it has not yet sufficiently addressed the rise of these NCDs, there are signs of progress.
He explained to MediaGlobal, "what is needed now is vigorous implementation of existing legislation, policies, and guidelines, with monitoring and evaluation of the impact thereof." Mayosi also added that though "the NGO response needs to be better coordinated with the government response, civil society and individuals are the key and this has been demonstrated well in the area of HIV/AIDS whose lessons need to be replicated more widely."
The group's study outlines a number of recommendations for the government to restructure health care to tackle the rise of NCDs. They include caring for the urban poor-who bear much of the brunt of NCDs-through exercise programs in school and at work; tobacco-use reduction programs, especially for youth; making food healthier; and strengthening local health systems. Experts believe that as the economies of the South grow, those suffering from NCDs will eventually outnumber those with infectious diseases, as is the case in the developed world. South Africa's experience could therefore offer solid guidelines for the rest of the global South.
Article published courtesy of MediaGlobal
