By Suleman Chitera

Lilongwe, Malawi – Health experts have raised alarm over the growing threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Malawi, with new figures showing that 32 out of every 100 deaths each year are linked to these conditions.

Speaking during the commemoration of Non-Communicable Diseases Week at Masintha Ground in Lilongwe, Hastings Chiumia, Deputy Director for Non-Communicable Diseases at the Ministry of Health, said diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney failure, and cancer are taking a heavy toll on Malawians.

Jumah joins Chakwera to remove failed Ministers

Chiumia noted that the Ministry has been training doctors and nurses on how to manage patients suffering from these chronic illnesses.

Meanwhile, NCD Alliance Malawi has called for increased government funding in the health sector to ensure affordable treatment for patients.

Chikhulupiriro Stanley Ng’ombe, a senior official at NCD Alliance, stressed that most medicines for NCDs are very expensive, making it difficult for ordinary Malawians to access the care they need.

“The time has come for government to allocate adequate resources towards non-communicable diseases. Prevention and early treatment are key if we are to save lives,” said Ng’ombe.

He further encouraged Malawians to focus on prevention through healthy lifestyles and to seek medical attention early to avoid complications.

Mangochi says Chakwera is a threat to Mutharika’s inauguration

Rising NCD Burden in Malawi

According to health experts, non-communicable diseases are now among the leading causes of death in Malawi, surpassing some infectious diseases. Lifestyle changes, poor diets, limited access to medical care, and high treatment costs are among the major contributing factors.

Public health advocates continue to emphasize the importance of awareness, early diagnosis, and affordable access to medicines as Malawi battles the rising tide of NCD-related deaths.