A Bold Strategy Against Non-Communicable Diseases in Africa

In a groundbreaking initiative, twenty African countries have ramped up their efforts to tackle severe non-communicable diseases (NCDs) over the past four years by embracing the PEN-Plus approach. This innovative model, which decentralizes critical health services, has been highlighted in a recent report released by the World Health Organization (WHO) Africa.

A Health Crisis on the Rise

The surge of non-communicable diseases in the WHO African Region presents an alarming public health challenge, with a staggering 2.8 million NCD-related deaths reported in 2019 alone. This equates to over 7,900 fatalities each day. Despite a decrease in total deaths from 8.7 million in 2000 to 7.8 million in 2019, the proportion of NCD-related deaths soared from 24% to a striking 37%.

Facing a Deadly Epidemic

Africa grapples with severe non-communicable diseases such as sickle-cell disease, type 1 and insulin-dependent type 2 diabetes, rheumatic heart disease, severe hypertension, and persistent asthma. Tragically, many children and young adults lose their lives due to a lack of access to diagnosis and essential care.

The Impactful PEN-Plus Approach

The PEN-Plus model enhances the WHO's Package of Essential Non-communicable Disease (PEN) interventions, aiming to manage these diseases at the primary health care level. Originally launched in Rwanda, PEN-Plus targets individuals living in extreme poverty, providing them crucial access to medical services.

Transforming Care Delivery

PEN-Plus empowers local healthcare workers by training them to offer essential medical services, from diagnosis to symptom management, for various severe NCDs. This integrated health care delivery system has already shown promising results in countries such as Liberia, Malawi, and Rwanda.

Celebrating Successes Across the Region

As of January 2025, over 15,000 individuals across implementing countries have received treatment for severe NCDs, thanks to extensive training of local health experts. In Malawi, the PEN-Plus initiative has made significant strides, with 440 clinicians and nurses trained, providing care to more than 300 patients at six secondary-level health facilities.

An Urgent Call to Action for Health Policy

The report serves as a crucial resource for policymakers, health professionals, and communities alike, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing NCDs on the global health agenda. It underscores the urgent need for ongoing investment and collaboration to broaden PEN-Plus coverage. Such efforts are essential for creating sustainable health systems that lead to improved outcomes for marginalized populations suffering from severe non-communicable diseases.