Overview

This document is the National Policy and Strategic Plan of Action on Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) published by the Federal Ministry of Health, Nigeria in May 2013. It outlines Nigeria's commitment to addressing the growing burden of NCDs, which are increasingly replacing communicable diseases as major contributors to morbidity and mortality. Key NCDs identified include hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, sickle cell disease, cancers, asthma, oral health diseases, mental health disorders, alcohol and substance use disorders, and road traffic injuries. Modifiable risk factors such as unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, tobacco use, and harmful alcohol use are highlighted, along with other factors like climate change, occupational exposure, and aging. The policy notes that NCDs caused 60% of global deaths in 2005 (35 million), with 80% occurring in developing countries. The document's purpose is to develop and implement policies promoting healthy lifestyles and quality health. Core sections include background, scope, policy goal, strategic thrusts, program management, stakeholder roles, and partnership coordination. The policy aims to integrate NCD prevention and control at all government and healthcare delivery levels. It acknowledges contributions from the Minister of Health, Professor C.O. Onyebuchi Chukwu, and other experts. The document is 135 pages and serves as a foundation for developing specific NCD guidelines.

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