Rise In Non-communicable Diseases Research Articles

SHERM: System of Electronic Health Record Management

The rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), particularly in India, highlights the need for innovative health- care solutions. SHERM (System of Electronic Health Record Management Software) addresses these challenges by offering a next-generation platform that integrates machine learning (ML), NFC, and QR technologies to enhance healthcare delivery. SHERM combines advanced data collection techniques, predic- tive analytics, and secure, real-time data access to improve patient outcomes and streamline healthcare processes. Its user-friendly design, developed using the MERN stack and Ionic framework, ensures inclusivity for differently-abled and rural populations while maintaining robust data security. The platform empowers healthcare providers with personal- ized insights for precise diagnoses and treatments, while pharma- ceutical companies gain actionable demographic data to optimize resources. By evolving its repository with minimal manual input, SHERM ensures scalability and long-term efficiency. By bridging gaps in traditional healthcare systems, SHERM demonstrates how technology can address NCD challenges, of- fering a scalable, secure, and accessible solution that enhances healthcare outcomes for all stakeholders. Index Terms—Electronic Health Records, Non-Communicable Diseases, Machine Learning, NFC, QR Code, Healthcare Acces- sibility

Global Health's Evolution and Search for Identity.

Despite earlier attempts to define global health, the discipline's boundaries are unclear, its priorities defined more by funding from high-income countries from the Global North than by global health trends. Governance and resource allocation are challenged by movements such as decolonizing global health. Inherent contradictions within global health derive from its historical evolution from tropical medicine and international health, as well as recent trends in infectious diseases. Demographic, socioeconomic, and epidemiologic transitions, including the rise in noncommunicable diseases, have eroded the concept of a binary world of developed and developing countries. Competitive tension has emerged between aspirations for global health security and health equity. Dominant principles should focus on vulnerable populations, transnational challenges such as migration and climate change, appropriate prevention and care, and epidemic preparedness and response capacity. As the 2030 target date for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals approaches, reconceptualization of global health is required, or the discipline risks losing identity and relevance.

Global Healthspan-Lifespan Gaps Among 183 World Health Organization Member States

Health-adjusted life expectancy, a measure of healthy longevity, lags longevity gains, resulting in a healthspan-lifespan gap. To quantify the healthspan-lifespan gap across the globe, investigate for sex disparities, and analyze morbidity and mortality associations. This retrospective cross-sectional study used the World Health Organization (WHO) Global Health Observatory as the global data source and acquired national-level data covering all continents. The 183 WHO member states were investigated. Statistical analysis was conducted from January to May 2024. Data represent 2 decades of longitudinal follow-up. Changes in life expectancy and health-adjusted life expectancy, as well as the healthspan-lifespan gap were quantified for all participating member states. Gap assessment was stratified by sex. Correlations of the gap with morbidity and mortality were examined. The healthspan-lifespan gap has widened globally over the last 2 decades among 183 WHO member states, extending to 9.6 years. A sex difference was observed with women presenting a mean (SD) healthspan-lifespan gap of 2.4 (0.5) years wider than men (P < .001). Healthspan-lifespan gaps were positively associated with the burden of noncommunicable diseases and total morbidity, and negatively with mortality. The US presented the largest healthspan-lifespan gap, amounting to 12.4 years, underpinned by a rise in noncommunicable diseases. This study identifies growing healthspan-lifespan gaps around the globe, threatening healthy longevity across worldwide populations. Women globally exhibited a larger healthspan-lifespan gap than men.

Need for a Strong FOPL in India-position Statement

Due to lifestyle changes, urbanization, and the rise of ultra-processed foods (UPF), India is undergoing a rapid nutritional transformation. These dietary shifts have significantly contributed to the rise in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), which now account for a substantial portion of mortality and disease burden in the country. A strong Front-of-Pack Labeling (FOPL) system is recommended in this position statement as a powerful public health tool to address this issue. Through the provision of easily comprehensible nutritional data, FOPL encourages food producers to create healthier goods while empowering customers to make educated dietary decisions. Current labeling practices in India, such as the Indian Nutritional Rating (INR), fall short due to complexity and voluntary implementation. This paper evaluates international best practices, including warning labels and color-coded systems, highlighting their effectiveness in reducing the consumption of high-risk foods. We argue for straightforward, uniform, and globally evidence-based approach to mandatory FOPL implementation. Policymakers, industry stakeholders, and public health advocates must collaborate to develop an FOPL system that addresses India’s unique dietary landscape. Such an initiative is crucial to reducing the NCD burden and fostering healthier eating habits nationwide.

Comparison of Food Accessibility and Acculturation among South Asians in the United Kingdom and India: A Photovoice Study

South Asian diaspora is one of the largest in the world, with India having the largest diaspora in the world at over 17.7 million(1). In the United Kingdom, South Asian population increased from 56.1 million to 59.6 million between 2011 and 2022(2). Presently, there is a rise of non-communicable diseases among the South Asians, both residing in the United Kingdom and India. Could migration have impact on the eating habit and level of participation in physical activity and subsequent influence on health and wellbeing of the South Asian was the main research question. Therefore, young South Asians in two different countries were recruited to explore their eating behaviour to promote and support better health and wellbeing practices.This is qualitative research whereby photovoice was used with thematic analysis for the interview. For photovoice, after, the pre-trial photos were checked, participants were requested to take at least five pictures with captions to express their eating behaviour and related aspects such as that can best describe (i) the type of food they eat (ii) the place they eat their food or drink (iii) what influence what they eat.Interviews were conducted among 7 South Asians (3 from UK and 4 from India, all female and aged between 24-35 years old) was conducted. Photovoice was followed up with interviews, discussing the photographs and taken by the participants. NVivo was used to manage and thematically analysed.Four main themes emerged: changes to eating behaviour, impact of culture on food habits, impact of eating behaviour on wellbeing and impact of eating behaviour on physical activity. It was evident that their eating behaviour was deeply rooted in culture and shaped by their family habits. The impact of eating behaviour among the young adults were huge especially among the UK participants and many had to resolve to different means of coping with the changes. Some of the changes were evident in some students almost completely changing their food preference to foods that are available, affordable, acceptable and time-friendly. These factors were reported as negatively impacting on their health, mental health and wellbeing. They engaged in physical activity only when they have health challenges. Generally, they follow their family routine, which explains the reason the young adults were less interested in physical activity due to family influences and habits.Moving away from the family home among participants in the UK and India impacts healthy food consumption, wellbeing, and physical activity. Food accessibility and acculturation was evidently an issue, which was emphasized through photovoice. Food insecurity remains to be explored, especially among those who move to the UK, as they prefer to consume food that they are familiar with and culturally based.

Population health status and green urban areas: impact on health outcomes in two Italian regions

Abstract Background Living in urban areas has been linked to a rise in noncommunicable diseases. Nevertheless, there is scarcity of evidence emphasizing the combined impacts of certain urban attributes (e.g. pollution, excessive soil sealing, urban temperatures) and the existence of green spaces on health outcomes. Further studies are imperative to evaluate the association between chronic illnesses such as dementia and ischemic heart disease, and the presence of urban green areas. Methods We conducted an ecological study in two Italian regions. Prevalence of chronic diseases in Tuscany and Latium were obtained at the municipality level from public health databases available online and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) was calculated for 2023. Descriptive analyses and Poisson regression models were run to assess the association between green space and chronic diseases prevalence, adjusting for age, sex, education, employment, foreign residents, income, urbanicity and spatial correlation. Results Preliminary analyses were conducted on 273 municipalities in Tuscany. Mean prevalence per 1000 inhabitants of dementia and ischemic heart disease were 15.75 (SD = 5.3) and 48.25 (SD = 11.06), respectively. Mean NDVI across municipalities was 0.37 (SD = 0.04). Higher green exposure is associated with lower prevalence of ischemic heart disease (β= -0.21; p &amp;lt; 0.05) and dementia (β=-0.3, p &amp;lt; 0.05). Analyses will be executed for the Latium region and complete results will be available by mid-June. Conclusions The presence of urban greenery appears to be associated with a reduction in chronic illnesses. While further studies are warranted, it is crucial to adopt urban policies focused on green spaces and citizens’ health outcomes. Generating evidence for decision-makers is essential for shaping urban environments in ways that promote both health and overall human wellbeing. Key messages • Living in green urban areas appears to positively impact human health, reducing chronic disease prevalence. • Greenery serve as a tool for mitigating and adapting to the climate crisis, promoting health.

Prevalence and associated factors of chronic kidney disease among Truká Indigenous adults in Cabrobó, Brazil: a population-based study

The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing worldwide, especially in developing countries, due to factors such as lifestyle changes and the rise of non-communicable diseases. Populations living in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas are subject to a higher burden of CKD. However, the burden of CKD on Brazilian Indigenous people, especially those undergoing an advanced urbanisation process, has not yet been described. This cross-sectional study included 1715 Truká Indigenous adults from Cabrobó, Brazil. CKD was defined according to the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes guidelines classification as a urinary albumin/creatinine ratio ≥30mg/g and/or an estimated glomerular filtration rate <60mL/min/1.73m2. Univariate and multiple logistic regression models were used to evaluate factors associated with CKD. Odds ratio (OR) with a 95% confidence interval (CI) was used to measure association. Out of the 1654 participants analysed (61 excluded due to missing data), the prevalence of CKD was 10% (95% CI, 8.6%-11.5%), with a higher prevalence in women compared to men (12.4% versus 6.9%, p<0.001). The mean age was 40.5 years, with 55.6% being women. In univariate analysis, female sex (OR, 1.9; 95% CI, 1.3-2.7), age ≥60 years (OR, 4.6; 95% CI, 3.2-6.6), cardiovascular disease (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.1-4.1), and dyslipidemia (OR, 1.6; 95% CI, 1.1-2.4) were identified as associated factors with CKD. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified age ≥60 years, female sex, and dyslipidemia as independently associated factors with CKD. The prevalence of CKD among Truká Indigenous adults analysed is high and affects a higher proportion of women. Our study found no association between hypertension, diabetes, obesity, and CKD risk, despite their high prevalence. These findings assist in developing early CKD detection strategies in Brazilian Indigenous communities, supporting disease treatment and prevention. National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq)-Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation of Brazil, and the Maria Emília Foundation.

Extrinsic goals benefit capitalism but not well-being. Rethinking the economy's goal for a healthier future.

The dramatic rise in non-communicable diseases around the world but notably in high-income countries like the UK is a manifestation of a global economic system-capitalism-that prioritizes wealth over health. A decade ago, the former WHO Director-General, Margaret Chan highlighted how 'efforts to prevent non-communicable diseases go against the business interests of powerful economic operators' [United Nations. (2013) Take Action for the Sustainable Development Goals. https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-development-goals/ (last accessed 16 February 2024)]. While there is a growing literature on how politics and economics influence population health-for better or worse-less attention has been given to exploring how economic systems like capitalism influence people's psychological well-being. To fill this gap, the following article examines how the continued pursuit of economic growth under capitalism (neoliberal free-market forms especially) impacts well-being through challenging basic psychological needs for security, autonomy, competence and relatedness. In doing so, I hope to shed important light on the sources and possible solutions to our growing health and social problems, and stimulate a conversation on how to achieve a healthier future for us all.

Predictors and health outcomes of cigarette and shisha smoking among men in Gaza: a cross-sectional study

Tobacco smoking, a significant public health concern globally, is associated with a rise in noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and preventable deaths, with pronounced impacts in conflict zones like Gaza. A cross-sectional study, conducted in 2020, in Gaza focused on individuals over 40 years of age, aiming to identify predictors of tobacco use and its links to diseases like coronary artery disease (CAD), chronic lung disease (CLD), and stroke using regression analysis. The research, based on the Gaza NCD study data with 4576 participants and a 96.6% response rate, found an overall tobacco smoking prevalence of 19.4%, with higher rates among men. After adjusting for various factors, the study identified significant associations between cigarette smoking in men and adverse health outcomes, such as CAD and CLD, with adjusted odds ratios (OR) of 1.67, 95% CI (1.22–2.29) and 1.68, 95% CI (1.21–2.33) respectively. However, after adjusting for independent variables, shisha smoking in men showed no association with these health outcomes. The findings of this study could assist other researchers in designing interventions aimed at reducing smoking prevalence by utilizing the associated factors identified in our analysis, such as age, education level, physical activity, and body mass index among men in Gaza.

SELF-REPORTED MULTI-MORBIDITY WITH TUBERCULOSIS: DATA FROM THE KHYBER PAKHTUNKHWA INTEGRATED POPULATION HEALTH SURVEY (KPIPHS) IN PAKISTAN.

With the rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in a country that is already facing high tuberculosis (TB) burden, TB multi-morbidity is likely to pose a significant public health challenge in Pakistan. Data were analysed to determine the prevalence of TB and explore the distribution and determinants of multi-morbidity associated with TB in the population of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa -a province of Pakistan. This is a secondary analysis of data gathered as part of the KPIPHS survey conducted in 2016-17 in both the rural and urban areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect data, from adults, on demographics, education and socioeconomic status, physical and mental health, reproductive health, child health, health-related quality of life, and self-reported cardiometabolic diseases including Diabetes, hypertension, renal disorders, cardiac failure, angina, and stroke. A total of 20,715 participants were recruited in the survey including 52.8% (n=10,943) males and 47.2% (n=9,772) females with a mean age of 41 (13.1) years. Data on TB status was available for a total of 14452 participants. The prevalence of TB in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was found to be 0.49% (n=72) including an almost equal number of males and females [48% (n=34) vs 51% (n=36)], respectively. The mean age of the patients with TB was 47.5 (11.6) years. A higher proportion of people with TB had cardiometabolic diseases compared to people without TB (45.9% vs. 30.9%). Amongst the cardiometabolic disorders, self-reported hypertension (OR: 1.81, 95% CI 1.08-3.02, p=0.02), Diabetes (OR: 3.99, 95% CI 1.95-8.18, p=<0.002), and angina (OR: 3.88 95% CI 1.20-12.49, p=0.02) were positively associated with the occurrence of TB. In the adjusted analysis, only self-reported Diabetes was positively associated with the occurrence of TB (OR: 3.33, 95% CI 1.61-6.88, p=0.001). There is a higher burden of self-reported cardiometabolic diseases among people with TB, suggesting that this high-risk group should be screened for cardiometabolic diseases, especially Diabetes.

The Impact of Caregiver Support on Symptom Improvement in Post-Stroke Patients

The Impact of Caregiver Support on Symptom Improvement in Post-Stroke Patients

Spatial distribution of non-communicable diseases; a case of Ischaemic Heart Diseases, Cancer and Diabetes in Sri Lanka

The abstract provides a comprehensive overview of the global prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and their impact on public health, emphasizing their leading role in morbidity and mortality worldwide. It highlights the specific burden of Ischaemic heart diseases, cancers, and diabetes, with a significant portion of premature deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Transitioning to Sri Lanka, the abstract underscores the country's shift towards NCDs as the primary health concern, attributing over 80% of premature deaths to these diseases. The narrative emphasizes the influence of rapid lifestyle changes and socio-economic development on the rise of NCDs in Sri Lanka and emphasizes the urgent need for comprehensive research to understand trends, patterns, and contributing factors for effective preventive measures.

Diet changes due to urbanization in South Africa are linked to microbiome and metabolome signatures of Westernization and colorectal cancer

Transition from traditional high-fiber to Western diets in urbanizing communities of Sub-Saharan Africa is associated with increased risk of non-communicable diseases (NCD), exemplified by colorectal cancer (CRC) risk. To investigate how urbanization gives rise to microbial patterns that may be amenable by dietary intervention, we analyzed diet intake, fecal 16 S bacteriome, virome, and metabolome in a cross-sectional study in healthy rural and urban Xhosa people (South Africa). Urban Xhosa individuals had higher intakes of energy (urban: 3,578 ± 455; rural: 2,185 ± 179 kcal/d), fat and animal protein. This was associated with lower fecal bacteriome diversity and a shift from genera favoring degradation of complex carbohydrates (e.g., Prevotella) to taxa previously shown to be associated with bile acid metabolism and CRC. Urban Xhosa individuals had higher fecal levels of deoxycholic acid, shown to be associated with higher CRC risk, but similar short-chain fatty acid concentrations compared with rural individuals. Fecal virome composition was associated with distinct gut bacterial communities across urbanization, characterized by different dominant host bacteria (urban: Bacteriodota; rural: unassigned taxa) and variable correlation with fecal metabolites and dietary nutrients. Food and skin microbiota samples showed compositional differences along the urbanization gradient. Rural-urban dietary transition in South Africa is linked to major changes in the gut microbiome and metabolome. Further studies are needed to prove cause and identify whether restoration of specific components of the traditional diet will arrest the accelerating rise in NCDs in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Evaluating compliance with local and International Food Labelling Standards in urban Tanzania: a cross-sectional study of pre-packaged snacks in Dar Es Salaam

BackgroundUrbanization influences food culture, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where there is an increasing consumption of processed and pre-packaged foods. This shift is contributing to a rise in non-communicable diseases. Food labelling standards are crucial for regulating manufacturing practices and helping consumers make healthy food choices. We aimed to assess the compliance of local and imported pre-packaged snacks with Tanzanian and international labelling standards in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.MethodologyA cross-sectional study was conducted on 180 snack products. A checklist based on Tanzanian and Codex labelling standards was used to evaluate adherence. We also examined factors influencing adherence, such as product origin, price, category, purchase location, and package size.ResultsThe majority of the snacks demonstrated partial adherence to Tanzania (n = 97; 54%) and International (Codex) (n = 120; 67%) labelling standards. Imported products showed significantly better adherence to both Tanzanian (n = 46; 53%) and international (n = 42; 48%) standards. Notably, more than half (n = 110; 66.7%) of the products used English for labelling, and infrequently (n = 74; 41.4%) used the recommended World Health Organization Front-of-Pack Nutrition Labelling. Product category, origin, and package size were significantly associated with higher levels of international standard adherence (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe inadequate adherence to mandatory labelling standards and the scarce use of Swahili and FoPL highlight the need to strengthen labelling practices and potential challenges faced by consumers in understanding nutritional information. Thus, strengthening and emphasizing good labelling practices are urgently needed as we seek to address diet-related noncommunicable diseases.

Transforming Public Health in Samoa: Battling Non-Communicable Diseases through Dietary Interventions and Government Initiatives

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have become a major health concern worldwide, with Samoa being no exception(1). This presentation delves into the intricate dynamics of NCDs in Samoa, from the historical perspective before colonization to the contemporary challenges and initiatives taken by the government to address this pressing issue. Samoa, before colonization, maintained traditional diets that were largely plant-based and rich in local fruits and vegetables(2). The evolution of these diets over time has played a significant role in the rise of NCDs. The incorporation of imported processed foods, high in sugars and unhealthy fats, has led to a shift in dietary patterns. Recognizing the urgency of the situation, the Samoan government has initiated a series of policies aimed at addressing NCDs. These include the NCD Policy and Nutrition Policy, which focus on promoting healthier lifestyles through dietary changes and increased physical activity(3). The Samoa Health System Strengthening Program for Results is a crucial component of the government’s approach to combat NCDs. It encompasses several key areas, including the “First 1000 Days” initiative, emphasizing the importance of proper nutrition during pregnancy and early childhood, and breastfeeding promotion, vital for the health and development of infants(4). Furthermore, the School Nutrition program is designed to instill healthy eating habits from a young age(5). Nutrition guidelines, monitored quarterly, are in place to ensure the quality of school meals, with a strong focus on reducing the consumption of instant noodles and sugary drinks among schoolchildren. For adults, the “Healthy eating for Adults” program is pivotal. It introduces Food-Based Dietary Guidelines in Samoa that categorize foods into carbohydrates (energy foods), proteins (body-building foods), and fruits and vegetables (protective foods)(6). These guidelines also recommend reducing the intake of sugary foods, salt, and foods high in fats and oils. An intriguing approach to improving dietary habits is the “Grow the Colors of the Rainbow” initiative, which encourages the consumption of a diverse range of colorful fruits and vegetables(7). By emphasizing the importance of a balanced diet, this initiative aims to address the imbalance that has contributed to the NCD epidemic. Through this presentation, attendees will gain a comprehensive understanding of the historical, dietary, and governmental aspects surrounding NCDs in Samoa. It highlights the urgency of addressing NCDs in the region and underscores the importance of ongoing efforts to promote healthier eating habits and lifestyle choices. By examining government policies and initiatives, as well as the challenges faced, we aim to shed light on the path toward a healthier, NCD-free Samoa.

Pixels to precision: Remote thoracic and pediatric cardiac surgery mentorship with Rods&amp;Cones® Technology in Kigali, Rwanda

Surgery is the final frontier in global medicine; yet, access to essential surgical services in low- and middle-income countries remains a significant barrier to equitable care. With a rise in non-communicable diseases and a shortage of skilled surgeons, the need for mentorship becomes crucial to capacity building. The COVID-19 pandemic acted as a catalyst for remote mentorship, leading to the development of innovative solutions such as Rods&amp;Cones&amp;reg;. Herein, we describe one example of remote mentorship conducted across a distance of more than 7,700 miles between King Faisal Hospital in Rwanda and the University of Wisconsin Hospital in the US. This paper aims to demonstrate how advances in remote mentorship technology can overcome existing barriers and aid in expanding the global surgical workforce in thoracic surgery.

Integrating rehabilitation into health systems: A comparative study of nine middle-income countries using WHO's Systematic Assessment of Rehabilitation Situation (STARS).

The need for rehabilitation is growing due to health and demographic trends, especially the rise of non-communicable diseases and the rapid ageing of the global population. However, the extent to which rehabilitation is integrated into health systems is mostly unclear. Our objective is to describe and compare the nature and extent of integration of rehabilitation within health systems across nine middle-income countries using available Systematic Assessment of Rehabilitation Situation (STARS) reports. Cross-country comparative study with variable-oriented design using available rehabilitation health system assessment reports from nine middle income countries. The integration of rehabilitation into health systems is limited across countries. Governance and financing for rehabilitation are mostly established within health ministries but weakly so, while health information systems are characterized by no available data or data that is insufficient or not routinely generated. The overall numbers of rehabilitation workforce per capita are low, with frequent reports of workforce challenges. In most countries the availability of longer-stay, high-intensity rehabilitation is extremely low, the availability of rehabilitation in tertiary hospitals is modest and in government supported primary care its almost non-existent. Multiple concerns about rehabilitation quality arose but the lack of empirical data hinders formal appraisal. The study sheds light on the limited integration of rehabilitation in health systems and common areas of difficulty and challenge across nine middle income countries. All countries were found to have a basis on which to strengthen rehabilitation and there were often multiple areas within each health system building block that required action in order to improve the situation. Findings can inform governments, regional and global agencies to support future efforts to strengthen rehabilitation. Additionally, our study demonstrates the value of STARS reports for health policy and systems research and can serve as a model for further comparative studies.

The Role of Nurses in Rehabilitation in Primary Health Care for Ageing Populations: A Secondary Analysis from a Scoping Review.

With the ageing of the global population and the rise in noncommunicable diseases, there is an increased need for rehabilitation services, especially those that address the specific needs of ageing populations. Through their proximity to patients, nurses play a critical role in providing rehabilitation interventions for older adults in primary health care. However, they are not yet established as typical rehabilitation providers and further research is needed to clarify their role and competencies to optimize rehabilitation interventions for ageing populations. Therefore, this secondary analysis of a scoping review aims to describe the role of nurses in the provision of rehabilitation interventions to ageing populations in primary health care. This review was carried out following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews. It is built on all inclusion and exclusion criteria from the primary analysis and focused on studies including nurses and taking place in primary health care. Data analysis included descriptive statistics, as well as qualitative analysis on the role of nurses. A total of 68 studies from high- and upper-middle income countries were included. Nurses typically had a managerial and clinical role (76%) and worked in multidisciplinary teams (54%), most often with physical therapists. Nurses provided 355 interventions, with assessments (n = 106; 30%), and coordination and management of the rehabilitation process (n = 105; 30%) being the most frequent ones. They had 117 different job titles and little information was available about their educational background. This paper contributes to a better understanding of the key role nurses play in providing rehabilitation interventions to ageing populations in primary health care. Matching nurses' competencies with their level of proficiency is essential to ensure quality care in rehabilitation.

THE RISE OF NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES: A GLOBAL HEALTH REVIEW OF CHALLENGES AND PREVENTION STRATEGIES

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have emerged as a major global health concern, posing significant challenges to healthcare systems worldwide. This paper provides a succinct overview of the rising prevalence of NCDs, examining the key challenges faced and outlining preventive strategies adopted on a global scale. The escalation of NCDs, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory conditions, is intricately linked to lifestyle factors, urbanization, and demographic transitions. This paper explores the multifaceted challenges posed by the growing burden of NCDs, encompassing economic implications, disparities in healthcare access, and the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Addressing NCDs necessitates a comprehensive and multi-sectoral approach. Prevention strategies are crucial components of global health initiatives, encompassing lifestyle modifications, public health interventions, and policy frameworks. This paper outlines successful preventive measures adopted globally, including tobacco control initiatives, promotion of healthy diets and physical activity, and the integration of early screening and detection programs. Despite notable progress, several challenges persist, requiring sustained efforts to curb the NCD epidemic. Issues such as limited resources, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and the need for cross-sectoral collaboration are explored in this paper. Additionally, the role of education, awareness campaigns, and technological innovations in shaping preventive strategies is emphasized. This paper provides a concise yet comprehensive overview of the global challenges posed by the rise of NCDs and highlights effective prevention strategies. It underscores the urgency for continued collaborative efforts to mitigate the impact of NCDs on global health, with a focus on fostering healthier lifestyles, improving healthcare access, and implementing evidence-based policies.&#x0D; Keywords: Non-communicable Diseases, Global Health, Prevention, Disease, Review, NCD.

The Burden of Cardiovascular Disease from Air Pollution in Rwanda.

Rwanda, like many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, is still relatively early in development. Industrialization and urbanization are major drivers of the county's economic growth. Rwanda is also undergoing an epidemiological transition, from a pattern of morbidity and mortality dominated by infectious diseases to a pattern shaped by non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The rise in NCDs is due, in part, to increasing exposures to environmental hazards. These include emissions from the growing number of motor vehicles and toxic occupational exposures. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is now an increasingly important cause of death in Rwanda, and ambient air pollution is a CVD risk factor of growing importance. To quantify the burden of CVD attributable to air pollution in Rwanda and identify opportunities for prevention and control of air pollution and pollution-related disease. We relied on the 2019 Global Burden of Disease (GBD) study for information on levels, sources, and trends in household and ambient air pollution and the burden of pollution-related disease in Rwanda. Information on pollution sources was obtained from the Health Effects Institute State of Global Air 2019 report. An estimated 3,477 deaths (95% Uncertainty Interval [UI]: 2,500-4,600) in Rwanda in 2019 were attributable to air pollution-related CVD. Of these, 689 (UI: 283-1,300) deaths were from ambient air pollution-related CVD, while 2,788 (UI: 1,800-3,800) deaths were from household air pollution-related CVD. Rwanda is experiencing increased rates of disease and premature death from NCDs, including CVD, as the country grows economically. While household air pollution is still the top pollution-related cause of disease and premature death, rising levels of ambient air pollution are an increasingly important CVD risk factor. Actions taken now to curb rising levels of ambient air pollution will improve health, reduce CVD, increase longevity, and produce great economic benefit for Rwanda. The single most effective intervention against air pollution will be a rapid nationwide transition to renewable energy. We recommend additionally that Rwanda prioritize air pollution prevention and control, establish a robust, nationwide air monitoring network, support research on the health effects of air pollutants, and build national research capacity. The allocation of increased resources for rural and urban public health and health care will complement air pollution control measures and further reduce CVD. To incentivize a rapid transition to renewable energy in Rwanda and other nations, we recommend the creation of a new Global Green Development Fund.