Cardiovascular disease in sub-Saharan Africa: a disaster waiting to happen

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Global Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) emergence in sub-Saharan Africa (sSA) is a significant and underestimated public health challenge.
• Existing health systems in sSA are overburdened by poverty, conflict, and the HIV/AIDS epidemic, diverting attention from non-communicable diseases like CVD.
• Limited reliable data on CVD prevalence and risk factors in sSA contribute to its neglect.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the increasing prevalence of CVD risk factors in specific regions of sub-Saharan Africa.
• To highlight the urgent need for preventive strategies to combat the escalating burden of CVD in the region.
• To underscore the necessity of addressing the 'double burden of disease' (communicable and non-communicable diseases) in sSA.

Main Methods:

• This study is a short review of existing literature and data on cardiovascular disease risk factors in sub-Saharan Africa.
• Analysis of trends in CVD risk factors in specific geographical areas within sSA.
• Synthesis of information to identify neglected warning signs of CVD emergence.

Main Results:

• Evidence indicates a significant increase in cardiovascular disease risk factors in certain areas of sub-Saharan Africa.
• The underestimation and denial of CVD as a threat in sSA are linked to a lack of comprehensive data and competing health priorities.
• Warning signs of CVD emergence are being overlooked due to the focus on infectious diseases and socioeconomic challenges.

Conclusions:

• Cardiovascular disease poses a serious and growing threat to sub-Saharan Africa that requires immediate attention.
• Preventive measures are crucial to mitigate the rising incidence of CVD and its associated risk factors.
• Addressing the 'double burden of disease' necessitates integrating CVD prevention and management into the broader health strategies of sub-Saharan Africa.