Non-Communicable Diseases

This section explains non-communicable disease, including symptoms and risk factors. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are diseases that cannot be spread from one person to another. They are often long-lasting and progress over time. Unlike infectious diseases, which are caused by pathogens (like bacteria or viruses), non-communicable diseases are typically caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Some common examples of non-communicable diseases include:

• Cardiovascular diseases (e.g. heart disease, stroke)
• Cancers (e.g. lung cancer, breast cancer)
• Respiratory diseases (e.g. chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, emphysema)
• Diabetes (Type 2)

These diseases are a significant cause of death and disability worldwide, and their prevention often involves changing lifestyle habits.

Risk Factors of Non-Communicable Diseases

Risk factors are conditions or behaviours that increase the likelihood of developing a particular disease. The main risk factors for non-communicable diseases are related to lifestyle choices and environmental influences. These include:

Symptoms

In many cases, non-communicable diseases do not show symptoms in the early stages. For example, high blood pressure or elevated cholesterol levels may not present obvious symptoms until they cause a major health issue, such as a heart attack or stroke. Regular check-ups can help identify these risk factors before they develop into more serious conditions.

Poor Diet

A poor diet is a major risk factor for many non-communicable diseases, particularly obesity, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes. A balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, is essential for maintaining good health. A poor diet may include excessive consumption of foods that are high in sugar, fat, and salt, while lacking essential nutrients.

• Balanced diet: A balanced diet contains the right amounts of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals that the body needs. This reduces the risk of diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

See the Eatwell Guide below.

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Smoking

Smoking is a significant risk factor for a range of non-communicable diseases, particularly cancer (especially lung cancer), cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory diseases. The harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke can damage the lungs, heart, and blood vessels, leading to chronic conditions and increasing the risk of developing cancer.

Weight

Being overweight or obese is a major risk factor for several non-communicable diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. Excess fat, especially around the abdomen, can affect how the body functions and increase the likelihood of developing these diseases.

• Body Mass Index (BMI) is a measure used to determine whether someone is at a healthy weight for their height.

The BMI formula is:

$$BMI = \frac{{\text{{Weight (kg)}}}}{{\text{{Height (m)}}^2}}$$

Example: A person weighing 70 kg and with a height of 1.75 m would have a BMI calculated as:

$$BMI = \frac{{70}}{{1.75^2}} = \frac{{70}}{{3.0625}} = 22.86$$

According to the BMI chart:

• Underweight: BMI less than 18.5
• Normal weight: BMI between 18.5 and 24.9
• Overweight: BMI between 25 and 29.9
• Obesity: BMI over 30

Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases.

Lack of Exercise

Physical inactivity is another risk factor for non-communicable diseases. Regular physical activity helps to maintain a healthy weight, improves heart health, strengthens muscles and bones, and reduces the risk of conditions like diabetes and certain cancers.

• The recommended amount of exercise for adults is at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (like brisk walking) or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity (like running) each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol in excess can increase the risk of a number of non-communicable diseases, including liver disease, heart disease, and several types of cancer. Long-term excessive alcohol consumption can also lead to high blood pressure, stroke, and liver damage. It's important to follow the recommended guidelines for alcohol consumption to reduce these risks.

Carcinogens

Carcinogens are substances or agents that increase the risk of cancer. These include tobacco smoke, certain chemicals in the environment, and radiation. Carcinogens can damage the DNA inside cells, leading to cancer. Exposure to carcinogens can be controlled by avoiding smoking, reducing exposure to harmful chemicals, and following safety guidelines in workplaces where carcinogens may be present.

Summary

Non-communicable diseases are largely preventable by making healthier lifestyle choices. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and limiting exposure to carcinogens are all important factors in reducing the risk of developing these diseases.