COVID-19 pandemic experience in sub-Saharan Africa: the need to narrow the dichotomy between communicable and non-communicable diseases prevention

Abstract

Existing evidence suggests that pre-existing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) were implicated in the morbidity and mortality associated with COVID-19 infection in Africa. This suggests that the existing burden of communicable diseases in Africa could be complicated by the increasing burden of NCDs in the region. On the other hand, there are suggestions that the direct and indirect effects of communicable diseases such as COVID-19 infection could also complicate the existing burden of NCDs in the continent through its potential biological or socioeconomic impacts. The available data on COVID-19 pandemic experience in the Africa suggests the need to revisit the dichotomy between communicable and non-communicable diseases’ preventive approach in the region with the aim of integrating them where necessary. Policies towards prevention of communicable diseases similar to COVID-19 or management of large outbreaks associated with them should take into consideration their potential relationship with NCDs. This will encourage partnership, easy mobilisation of existing human and material resources towards mutual prevention of both the communicable and its associated non-communicable diseases.