Inadequate implementation of most effective NCD prevention interventions for physical activity and unhealthy diet in five sub-Saharan countries

Recent research examined non-communicable disease (NCD) prevention policy process in five sub-Saharan African countries where key elements of content, development and implementation were reviewed for the following key risk factors: alcohol, physical activity, diet, and tobacco. The five case countries were Malawi, South Africa, Kenya, Cameroon, and Nigeria. A total of 276 documents were reviewed and 202 key informant interviews were conducted.

The findings revealed that in addition to limited financial resources committed to NCD prevention across the countries, there were notable hindrances to alcohol and tobacco policy development and implementation due to industry influence and political endorsement. All five countries had existing or recently attempted developing national NCD strategic plans, however tobacco policy in Malawi was not aligned to the World Health Organization Global NCD Action Plan for NCD Control. Implementation of physical activity and unhealthy diet “best buy” interventions was found to be generally inadequate across the countries. For detailed information about this research, click here.