A growing number of Africans are losing their lives to diseases that can be prevented or managed through early diagnosis, healthier lifestyles and access to treatment, according to a new study.
The study shows heart disease and stroke are the continent’s leading causes of death among non-communicable diseases.
The Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2023 study shows NCDs accounted for 4.7 million deaths across Africa, representing nearly 45 per cent of all deaths on the continent. This marks a significant increase from 1990, when the diseases accounted for 25 per cent of deaths.
Cardiovascular diseases were the leading contributors to NCD-related deaths, with ischemic heart disease and stroke ranking as the top two causes of death across Africa. Chronic kidney disease, hypertensive heart disease and diabetes also featured among the leading causes.
The findings highlight a growing health challenge for families who must contend not only with the loss of loved ones but also with the financial and emotional consequences of prolonged illness, disability and medical care.
Unlike infectious diseases, which are often associated with outbreaks and immediate public health emergencies, NCDs can develop over many years. Conditions such as high blood pressure and diabetes may go undetected until they cause serious complications, including heart attacks, strokes and kidney failure.
The study found that NCDs accounted for an estimated 263 million disability-adjusted life years in Africa in 2023. This measure combines years lost through premature death with years lived with illness or disability, illustrating the wider impact of disease on individuals, households and communities.
Mental and musculoskeletal disorders were among the leading contributors to disability associated with NCDs, further affecting people's ability to work, care for their families and maintain their quality of life.
The research also points to the role of everyday risk factors in the growing burden. More than half of NCD deaths and over a third of NCD-related disability-adjusted life years were linked to modifiable risk factors.
High systolic blood pressure accounted for 26.2 per cent of all NCD deaths in Africa, followed by dietary risks at 14.7 per cent and air pollution at 14.2 per cent.
Rising obesity and high blood sugar levels are also raising concerns about the future burden of diabetes and other metabolic diseases.
The findings underline the importance of knowing one's blood pressure and blood sugar levels, early diagnosis and following prescribed treatment. Healthier diets, regular physical activity and avoiding tobacco can also help reduce some risks.
However, prevention cannot rest on individuals alone. Access to screening, affordable medicines, reliable health information and consistent follow-up care remains essential, particularly in communities where financial constraints and limited health services can delay diagnosis.
The study notes that NCD-related deaths more than doubled between 1990 and 2023 in most African countries.
The findings point to the need for stronger prevention and early detection programmes, alongside better access to treatment and long-term care.
