This archive report was first published on 18 May 2020.
Published on May 18, 2020, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought the world to its knees, claiming over 200,000 lives in just four months. However, this highly infectious disease has eclipsed a more insidious threat: non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
NCDs, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancer, claim at least 40 million lives annually, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Meanwhile, infectious diseases like tuberculosis (TB), HIV/AIDS, and malaria kill approximately 17 million people each year.
As the global health system struggles to cope with the 'double disease' burden, it's essential to address the triple crisis scenario posed by Covid-19. This requires a concerted response to tame the pandemic while also stemming the worsening of NCDs and infectious diseases.
Kenya, with over 1,000 confirmed Covid-19 cases, is no exception. The government's mass testing efforts are expected to surge the number of cases, necessitating a two-front approach to tackle the triple public health crisis.
Firstly, we must prioritize vulnerable groups, particularly those battling chronic NCDs. Medical experts warn that these individuals are at a higher risk of becoming seriously ill with Covid-19, making it crucial to provide them with extra attention.
Secondly, we need to ramp up the capacity of our health system to cope with the triple disease crisis. This involves mobilizing health systems through adequate resourcing, including equipment, personnel, and drugs, to tackle the coronavirus and other high-risk medical conditions.
With the national universal health coverage (UHC) programme still in its nascent stages and health insurance uptake low, many families may struggle to access quality and affordable healthcare, especially if they contract the coronavirus. Families affected by NCDs will be even more disadvantaged, facing extreme financial challenges.
To reduce the triple health burden on individuals, families, communities, healthcare providers, and medical insurers, we must encourage everyone to adopt healthy lifestyles, protecting themselves from Covid-19 and other deadly diseases.
