Introduction
The Ministry of Health and Population in Nepal has initiated a comprehensive program to combat the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, kidney diseases, and body mass index (BMI)-related health risks. This initiative emphasizes early detection, prevention, and community-wide awareness under the banner of “One-Month Campaign for NCD Identification and Management 2081.”
With 75% of deaths in Nepal attributed to NCDs, this campaign is a critical step toward reducing premature deaths and improving the quality of life through health promotion and preventive strategies.
Key Objectives
- Early Identification:
- Screening for major NCDs, including diabetes, hypertension, and kidney diseases, at local healthcare facilities.
- Measuring BMI to identify individuals at risk for obesity or undernutrition.
- Integration with Existing Programs:
- Incorporating the initiative into basic health service programs and PEN (Package of Essential Non-Communicable Diseases Interventions) to ensure a comprehensive approach.
- Protocol-Based Management:
- Providing care based on established protocols and ensuring referrals for complex cases.
- Community Empowerment:
- Promoting awareness to reduce risk factors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, high salt intake, and physical inactivity.
Implementation Framework
- Target Group:
- Individuals aged 30 and above across Nepal, especially those in underserved communities.
- Location:
- Health posts, primary healthcare centers, and basic hospitals at the local government level.
- Timeline:
- Annually during a designated month, ensuring continuous focus on NCD prevention.
- Financial Strategy:
- Utilizing provincial and local budgets without additional federal allocations, ensuring sustainability.
- Communication and Awareness:
- Utilizing radio, community meetings, and health camps for outreach.
- Leveraging social media and traditional media for wide coverage.
Core Activities
- Screening and Diagnosis:
- Diabetes: Blood sugar levels measured through glucometers and urine dipsticks.
- Hypertension: Blood pressure measurement using sphygmomanometers and stethoscopes.
- Kidney Diseases: Protein levels in urine analyzed using dipsticks.
- BMI Assessment: Weight and height used to calculate BMI, categorizing individuals under WHO standards.
- Health Education:
- Providing information on maintaining a healthy lifestyle to all screened individuals.
- Community-Based Interventions:
- Promoting healthier habits through local participation and educational campaigns.
Stakeholder Roles
- Federal Level:
- Coordinate the campaign’s design, funding, and oversight.
- Provincial Level:
- Develop multi-sectoral plans and allocate budgets.
- Local Level:
- Deploy health workers for screenings and follow-up care, ensuring regular data collection.
Monitoring and Evaluation
- Regular progress reports from health facilities.
- Weekly updates at the provincial level.
- National-level evaluations post-campaign to assess impact and improve strategies.
Expected Outcomes
- Increased early detection of NCDs, reducing long-term complications and healthcare costs.
- Greater public awareness of NCD risk factors and preventive measures.
- Integration of effective screening and management practices into routine health services.
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In Facts
The “One-Month Campaign for NCD Identification and Management 2081” is a visionary initiative. It addresses the alarming rise in non-communicable diseases in Nepal. By fostering early detection, community awareness, and protocol-driven management, this campaign promises a healthier future for Nepali citizens.
Let’s work together to make it a success!
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