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Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Burundi are rising at an alarming rate. Despite contributing to 37% of deaths nationally, research and policy responses remain fragmented and under-resourced. Addressing this growing burden demands strategic action grounded in reliable data and inclusive health policies.

Key challenges in NCD prevention and control:

  • Data Gaps: Lack of a comprehensive national study on NCD prevalence; available data are fragmented and inconsistent.
  • High-Risk Groups: Women, children, and adolescents—especially girls aged 5–10—show high rates of obesity and hypertension.
  • Limited Surveillance: Health information systems focus on communicable diseases, leaving NCDs poorly monitored.
  • Policy and Governance: National NCD strategies are weakly developed and underfunded despite the significant burden.
  • Healthcare Infrastructure: Limited diagnostic and treatment options for diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular conditions—particularly in rural areas.
  • Behavioral Risk Factors: Increases in tobacco use, poor diets, and sedentary lifestyles, with minimal prevention campaigns.

Risk Factors Across Age Groups

Among Children and Adolescents:

  • Obesity: Rapidly increasing, especially among girls aged 5–10 and adolescent females.
  • Unhealthy Diets: Growing consumption of processed foods and low access to healthy alternatives.
  • Physical Inactivity: Limited recreational infrastructure, especially in urban areas.
  • Early Tobacco and Alcohol Exposure: Sparse data, but early initiation remains a concern.
  • Environmental Pollution: Indoor air pollution from biomass fuels may contribute to chronic respiratory issues.

Among Adults:

  • Hypertension and Diabetes: Widespread, linked to high BMI, cholesterol, and poor diets.
  • Tobacco Use: Common among men, with few cessation services available.
  • Alcohol Consumption: Often unregulated, contributing to liver and cardiovascular complications.
  • Low Physical Activity: Especially in urban zones with minimal green space.
  • Gender Disparities: Women face higher rates of obesity and specific cancers, while men have higher risks of hypertension and prostate cancer.

These findings emphasize the need for age- and gender-responsive interventions, comprehensive NCD surveillance systems, and expanded health education campaigns. Addressing the NCD epidemic in Burundi requires integrated strategies aligned with global health goals and national realities.