Dikoloti emphasised the urgency of the situation. "Recent studies estimate that NCDs account for about 46% of all deaths in our country.
"This is a sobering reality that underscores the urgent need for action," he stated. He revealed that heart diseases, cancers, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and mental illnesses are amongst the most prevalent NCDs affecting the population. Dikoloti pointed out that the premature deaths caused by NCDs not only deprive families of breadwinners, but also lead to the loss of the country’s most productive and skilled workforce. He highlighted the epidemiological transition in Botswana due to urbanisation and the adoption of Western lifestyles, resulting in a rise in modifiable NCD risk factors.
"People’s lifestyles are killing them, and we are facing a crisis of monumental proportions," he said, and urged for a behavioural change. "We are facing a crisis of monumental proportions. It’s a crisis that threatens the very fabric of our society and undermines our collective aspirations for a healthier and more prosperous Botswana.
The scourge of NCDs looms large over our nation. NCD diseases stand as the leading cause of death globally. They are responsible for a staggering 41 million lives lost each year." Shockingly, he stated, this represents 74% of all deaths worldwide, exceeding the combined death toll of HIV, TB and malaria. He pointed out that about 86% of these premature deaths occur in low and middle-income countries such as Botswana. Dikoloti said despite being preventable, NCDs continue to affect lives, including young people, exacting a heavy socio-economic toll and draining valuable resources.
He highlighted Botswana's efforts to address the NCD crisis, including prioritising these diseases on the national agenda, implementing evidence-based interventions, health education, public awareness campaigns, and strengthening healthcare facilities. Meanwhile, the minister has announced the launch of the third Non-Communicable Disease Risk Factor Survey (the STEP Survey), scheduled from March 8 to June 18 this year. The launch will be done in collaboration with partners like the National AIDS and Health Promotion Agency, World Health Organisation, and Statistics Botswana. The survey aims to provide crucial insights into the current prevalence of NCDs and their risk factors amongst the population.
