Risk factors for chronic non-communicable diseases: a follow-up model

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) result from complex interactions between environmental, socio-economic factors, and human biology.
• A significant portion (over 70%) of CNCDs are preventable, highlighting the importance of targeted interventions.
• Serbia implemented an integrated health prevention program for CNCDs in 1996, aligned with WHO's "Health for All" goals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the adequacy of existing primary healthcare medical documentation for CNCD surveillance and risk factor analysis.
• To propose an improved model for data collection and evidence generation within primary healthcare.
• To establish a framework for surveillance, prevention, and control of mass CNCDs using integrated medical documentation.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of medical records from general practice and occupational health services in Kikinda, Republic of Serbia.
• Development and utilization of a specialized questionnaire for data extraction from medical records.
• Evaluation of data completeness for evidence, surveillance, and risk factor identification.

Main Results:

• Existing medical documentation was found to be insufficient for comprehensive evidence, surveillance, and analysis of CNCD risk factors.
• The current system lacks the necessary data to effectively monitor and manage CNCDs.
• There is a clear need for a standardized approach to data collection and reporting.

Conclusions:

• A follow-up model for surveillance and evidence of risk factors should be integrated into basic medical documentation.
• Routine statistical reports should incorporate data relevant to CNCD risk factors.
• Active involvement of healthcare professionals (doctors and medical staff) is crucial for the prevention and detection of risk factors.