Liberia is at risk of an NCD epidemic, including conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Dr. Clement Peter from the WHO emphasizes the urgency of raising awareness and addressing nutrition to prevent these diseases. Individual experiences, such as those of nurse Kulah Quaqua, illustrate the challenges posed by lifestyle and limited access to healthy food. A coordinated national approach is recommended for effective prevention and management of NCDs.
In Liberia, the warning signs of an impending epidemic of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as heart disease, diabetes, mental health issues, and cancers are evident, as articulated by Dr. Clement Peter, the outgoing WHO Country Representative. Despite Liberia’s potential to mitigate these conditions, a lack of public awareness and access to affordable, healthier food options presents significant challenges. By adopting a nationally coordinated approach, experts believe many of these diseases can be prevented.
Kulah Quaqua, a nurse in Gbarpolu County, exemplifies the daily struggle against the impact of an unhealthy lifestyle on health. Juggling her responsibilities as a caregiver and a professional leaves little time for check-ups or exercise. Following a diagnosis of Type 2 diabetes, she faced consequences due to a lack of clear information correlating her food habits to the disease.
NCDs, which include hypertension, diabetes, and cancers, are now a pressing concern in Liberia, significantly contributing to the national disease burden, with an estimated 40 percent attributable to preventable ailments. Unfortunately, many individuals remain undiagnosed or inadequately educated on lifestyle changes that could improve their health.
Access to healthcare remains limited, and the existing health system is slow to address the dangers posed by NCDs. Kulah’s journey from an inadequate local healthcare system to seeking assistance in Kigali, Rwanda, depicts the challenges faced by many. In Rwanda, she learned that her diet needed to shift significantly for improved health outcomes, a principle that is yet to gain traction in Liberia.
Once back in Liberia, Kulah was confronted with the reality of resisting unhealthy dietary choices due to the high costs of nutritious food. This sentiment is echoed by Dr. Peter, who emphasizes the necessity of incorporating more fruits and vegetables into diets to combat NCDs effectively. Moreover, the country’s agricultural systems need reform to ensure the availability of these essential foods.
The recovery from Liberia’s civil wars and the Ebola outbreak has concentrated on nutrition, yet the prevention of NCDs has not been prioritized. Jonathan Stewart, CEO of Agro Tech, underscores the challenges that small-scale farmers face in producing sufficient fresh produce, which hampers broader dietary health.
For individuals like William Pewu, who suffers from diabetes and hypertension, the availability of medication is often met with the burden of additional costs for monitoring supplies. Despite having insurance, the high prices of essential diabetic supplies still pose significant hurdles to effective disease management.
The Ministry of Health is gradually progressing in its response to the NCD crisis. Initiatives have been established to educate the public and integrate NCD awareness into health systems. Ms. Donnetta Hoff of the James N. Davis Jr. Memorial Hospital remarks on the increasing urgency to address this health crisis as more citizens succumb to diabetes due to financial constraints.
Through collective efforts, a future that prioritizes the prevention of non-communicable diseases and improved public health education in Liberia can be achieved, yet it necessitates immediate and coordinated responses to the challenges faced in both lifestyle changes and essential health services availability.
The rising incidence of non-communicable diseases in Liberia, highlighted through personal stories and expert insights, necessitates urgent attention. A coordinated national strategy focused on health education and improved access to nutritious food can significantly counter the threats posed by these diseases. Furthermore, the healthcare system must adapt to prioritize prevention and sustainable agricultural practices to ensure the well-being of the Liberian population. With collective action and the involvement of multiple sectors, a healthier future for Liberia is attainable.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
