Health services in sub-Saharan Africa screen for noncommunicable diseases

Location: Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, Zambia

According to the World Health Organization, without immediate intervention, noncommunicable diseases will cause more deaths by 2030 in low- and middle-income countries than AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria, childbirth and nutritional disorders combined. Using lessons learned from previous FHI 360 pilot studies, screenings for cardiovascular disease and cervical cancer are provided at all HIV treatment sites in Nigeria. Noncommunicable disease integration services are also in place in Kenya and Zambia. In Ghana, a project launched in August 2011 screens approximately 400 clients per week for cardiovascular disease risk factors in two outpatient clinics. To extend the reach of services, community outreach events are held and clients are sent text messages on healthy living and treatment reminders. Through its community-based research and programs, FHI 360 is connecting people and health systems to address better the burden of noncommunicable diseases.