Liberia’s Urgent Need for a Coordinated Approach to Combat NCD Epidemic
The World Health Organization highlights the looming crisis of non-communicable diseases in Liberia, driven by lifestyle choices and lack of information. Nurse Kulah Quaqua’s personal struggles illustrate the broader health issues faced by many. Experts advocate for a coordinated national effort to increase awareness, improve access to nutritious foods, and enhance healthcare infrastructure to combat the alarming rise in conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
In Liberia, the World Health Organization representative, Dr. Clement Peter, warns that the nation faces a “next epidemic” of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including heart disease, diabetes, and various cancers. Such diseases, primarily influenced by lifestyle choices, pose significant health risks due to poor dietary habits, limited exercise, and inadequate awareness among the population. Many individuals, including healthcare professionals like nurse Kulah Quaqua, lack critical information regarding preventive measures and relevant dietary changes, resulting in a growing incidence of conditions such as diabetes.
Kulah Quaqua exemplifies the struggles faced by many Liberians. Juggling a demanding job in a community health clinic and caring for her children, she neglected her health until a colleague urged her to seek medical attention. Unfortunately, upon diagnosis, she discovered that such chronic conditions often stem from lifestyle factors rather than genetics alone. Furthermore, a lack of accessible information exacerbates the ongoing health crisis, leaving many unmonitored and untreated.
The urgent need for a nationally coordinated approach to combat NCDs is emphasized by experts. Dr. Peter proposes that a comprehensive strategy involving multiple government ministries is essential. Raising awareness about healthy lifestyle choices, improving agricultural infrastructure, and making fresh produce affordable are critical components of such a plan. As seen in Rwanda, reforms in agriculture paired with a focus on preventing malnutrition effectively lower the risk of NCDs.
The challenges in Liberia’s healthcare landscape are considerable. Individuals like Kulah often find themselves lost in a fragmented medical system, struggling to access affordable care and nutritious food. Moreover, the existing agricultural systems, characterized by subsistence farming, limit the availability of fresh produce, making it difficult for the population to make healthier dietary choices.
Addressing the rising costs of healthcare is also essential. Patients like William Pewu, diagnosed with hypertension and diabetes, may benefit from insurance but still face high out-of-pocket expenses for essential medical supplies. The Ministry of Health has drafted an NCD policy aimed at integrating NCD awareness, but the implementation of effective outreach and access to treatment remains insufficient.
Ultimately, transforming Liberia’s food system and healthcare infrastructure is vital for combating the looming epidemic of NCDs. Through targeted awareness campaigns, improved access to healthy foods, and a collaboratively structured response among ministries, Liberia can mitigate the impact of these ailments and provide optimal health outcomes for its citizens. Without such efforts, the consequences of inaction will weigh heavily on the population’s health, encumbering families and communities for generations to come.
In summary, Liberia faces a pressing challenge with non-communicable diseases that necessitates urgent action. The intertwining issues of inadequate healthcare access, lack of dietary information, and insufficient agricultural systems highlight the need for a coordinated national strategy. By addressing these concerns, enhancing public awareness, and making dietary improvements feasible, Liberia can work towards a healthier population and prevent the emergence of further health crises. Effective collaboration among governmental and healthcare entities is critical in achieving these objectives and ensuring the well-being of the nation.
Original Source: frontpageafricaonline.com
