MPs Called to Champion Self-Care Amidst Rising Non-Communicable Diseases

Members of Parliament are being encouraged to lead the charge in promoting self-care and preventive health measures as Uganda faces an increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The call came during a recent engagement in Kampala, involving the Ministry of Health, legislators, and civil society organizations.

Dr. Richard Mugahi, Commissioner for Reproductive, Maternal and Child Health, highlighted that the prevalence of NCDs, particularly diabetes, has seen a significant surge. He noted that a survey indicated a doubling of diabetes cases in the last five years. “In the last five years, there is a gentleman who did a survey that indicated that in the last five years, from 2020 to now, the number of people living with diabetes has doubled,” he stated. Dr. Mugahi emphasized that MPs could leverage their influence to advocate for self-care and early detection within their constituencies, stressing that lifestyle changes are crucial in mitigating the impact of these growing public health concerns.

Self-care, defined as deliberate actions to enhance mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being, was presented as a key strategy. Ms. Hadija Omar, from Makerere University School of Public Health, shared her personal journey of overcoming obesity, which had led to high blood pressure, fatigue, and low self-esteem. Her successful weight-loss efforts, involving consistent exercise and healthy eating, underscore the importance of sustained commitment to a healthy lifestyle.

Parliamentary representatives acknowledged the need for action. MP Josephine Bebona committed to championing self-care, advocating for a shift from curative to preventive healthcare to address conditions like prostate and breast cancer. Meanwhile, CEHURD’s Executive Director, Ms. Fatia Kiyange, urged the Health Committee to finalize pending health legislation, including bills on assisted reproduction, the right to health, and patient rights, to strengthen Uganda’s healthcare system.

The collective message from stakeholders pointed towards the critical role of robust preventive healthcare, supportive legislation, and individual responsibility in curbing the rise of NCDs and alleviating strain on the healthcare system. Non-communicable diseases currently account for a substantial portion of deaths in Uganda, with cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and diabetes being major concerns.

This article is based on information from the Daily Monitor.