Capacity building for an integrated noncommunicable disease risk factor surveillance system in developing countries

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Global Health

Background:

• Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) represent a growing global health burden.
• Existing surveillance methods often lack integration and focus on specific risk factors.
• The World Health Organization (WHO) is prioritizing a risk-factor-based approach to NCD surveillance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and advocate for the WHO's STEPwise approach to NCD surveillance (STEPS).
• To outline STEPS as a framework for integrated NCD prevention and control.
• To emphasize the importance of building and sustaining country-level surveillance capacity.

Main Methods:

• The STEPS framework utilizes a standardized, stepwise approach to collect data on major NCD risk factors.
• Focuses on key risk factors that predict common NCDs.
• Aims to establish and enhance national capacity for ongoing NCD surveillance.

Main Results:

• STEPS provides a structured pathway for countries to implement NCD surveillance.
• It facilitates the collection of essential data for policy development and intervention planning.
• The approach is designed to increase a country's capacity to influence health policy through evidence.

Conclusions:

• The STEPS framework is a crucial first step toward integrated NCD surveillance and control.
• Sustained donor support is vital for countries to effectively implement STEPS and reduce NCD burden.
• Utilizing STEPS data can lead to more effective policies for NCD prevention and management.