An Overview of the Available Health System for Monitoring Non-Communicable Diseases in Malawi

Abstract

Background: Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Malawi and they come second as the leading cause of death in adults after HIV and AIDS. The World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the importance of NCD monitoring as a key action which were adopted by the Member States in addressing NCDs. The framework is composed of nine global targets and 25 indicators aimed at combating global mortality for the four main NCDs. This study aimed to examine the existing national NCD monitoring tools, activities and gaps in Malawi based on WHO Global Monitoring Framework for NCDs. Methods: A desk review was conducted from June to August 2021, to examine the existing national NCD monitoring tool in Malawi from multiple sources. Policy and program documents relating to NCD monitoring in Malawi from 2011 to 2021 were identified and analyzed. Results: The findings of this review are presented according to the three major themes of the Global Monitoring Framework: Health systems capacity, monitoring of risk factors, and monitoring of mortality and morbidity outcomes. Malawi has an NCD monitoring tool in place that is adequate for the WHO NCD Global Monitoring Framework. However, there are still gaps with data from monitoring health systems indicators of the framework and hence requires strengthening. Conclusion: The country must also look beyond these set of indicators and target increasing burden and impact of COVID-19 pandemic.