# Burden of Non-Communicable Diseases and Emerging Attention in Gandaki Province, Nepal

## TL;DR

Non-communicable diseases are a growing health issue in Nepal, with a screening campaign in Gandaki Province revealing high rates of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity.

## Contribution

The paper introduces a province-wide screening initiative in Nepal to address rising non-communicable diseases through targeted health campaigns.

## Key findings

- Integrated screening sessions identified high prevalence of hypertension and high blood sugar in high-risk individuals.
- Abnormal cholesterol levels and obesity were also commonly observed among participants.
- The campaign aims to raise awareness and improve management of non-communicable diseases through coordinated efforts.

## Abstract

Non-communicable diseases have become a major health challenge globally, including in Nepal. Deaths due to non-communicable diseases in Nepal are increasing, accounting more than half of total deaths. Major contributors to deaths due to non-communicable diseases include cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, cancers, digestive diseases such as pancreatitis and cirrhosis of liver, and diabetes. To address this, Gandaki Province organized integrated screening sessions for non-communicable diseases covering 2,976 high-risk individuals aged 40 years and above from six districts. The preliminary findings of screenings revealed a high prevalence of hypertension, high blood sugar, obesity, and abnormal cholesterol levels. Designating Falgun as the month for the non-communicable diseases screening campaign throughout the country helps in promoting awareness, screening, and management of these diseases through effective coordination and resource allocation for successful impact.