Caregivers and persons living with non-communicable diseases have urged Homa Bay government to set up a special fund to fight NCDs.
NCDs are the leading cause of death worldwide and represent an emerging global health threat. They need long-term treatment and care.
Examples of NCDs are heart diseases, cancer, sickle cell, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes.
Homa Bay NCD Advocacy Chapter chairperson Mercy Kwamboka, during a meeting, said NCDs have been neglected due to misconception.
Kwamboka, who was accompanied by deputy Gordon Ayatta and coordinator Teresa Odero, said some people linked NCDs to witchcraft.
This has barred many people from getting urgent and proper medical attention.
“NCDs are serious diseases but myths around them make people not to give them urgent attention. This narrative should change,” Kwamboka said.
She spoke during mapping of sickle cell patients by NCD Alliance Kenya in Homa Bay town.
Kwamboka said the funds will sensitise people on NCDs and enhance access to medication.
The funds will also be used to equip health facilities in villages with drugs and personnel.
This will save the sick from travelling long distances in search of medical care.
Odero urged policy makers to step up their efforts to fight NCDs.
“Most patients suffering from NCDs say don’t have access to drugs and other medical services,” she said.
“Most NCDs are as a result of life style. There is need for policy makers and health promotion organisations sensitise people on prevention,” Ayata said.