Gatefield, a public strategy and media group focused on driving positive change through impactful advocacy and creative storytelling, will host the Gatefield Health Summit 2024, from Oct. 22 to Oct. 23 in Abuja.
Ms Ijudaye Shettima, a Social Impact, Policy and Governance Advocate, made the announcement on Wednesday in Abuja.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), non-communicable diseases (NCDs) claim no fewer than 41 million lives each year, accounting for 71 per cent of all global deaths.
More than 15 million people aged 30 to 69 die annually from NCDs, with 85 per cent of these “premature” deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries; furthermore, 77 per cent of all NCD deaths are concentrated in these regions.
Shettima highlighted that the summit would bring together global health leaders and advocates to address the growing NCD crisis in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa.
“Themed ‘Beyond 65: Preventing the Quiet Epidemic,’ the event will focus on the pressing need for action against NCDs like heart disease, diabetes and cancer, which now account for over one-third of deaths in the region.
“NCDs are now the leading cause of death globally, responsible for 74 per cent of all fatalities worldwide.
“The summit will address crucial topics such as fiscal health policies, the rising obesity epidemic, the burden on caregivers, and the critical role of primary healthcare in preventing and managing NCDs.’’
She said that environmental factors, including air quality and their impact on public health, would also be key areas of discussion.
Shettima said that the summit would unveil Gatefield’s new health strategy, aimed at extending life expectancy in Africa by tackling the NCD epidemic through innovative policies and interventions.
“Experts and stakeholders at the summit will discuss how Africa can adapt global and localised strategies to enhance NCD prevention and control,” she said.
She said that the Gatefield Health Summit 2024 was expected to provide a roadmap for combating the NCD epidemic in Africa, with an emphasis on sustainable health policies and innovative strategies to improve health outcomes across the region.(NAN)
