​By Thuso Montwedi
 
The Gauteng Department of Health (GDoH) has raised the alarm over the escalating prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the province, a concern echoed nationwide. Recent data reveals that conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases are increasing at a concerning rate, particularly among urban residents whose lifestyles often contribute to these health risks. The burden of NCDs not only threatens the health of individuals but also places a strain on healthcare resources.
According to Statistics South Africa, diabetes is among the leading causes of death, especially impacting women. Deputy Minister of Health, Dr. Joe Phaahla recently highlighted this at a roundtable discussion, noting that diabetes accounts for 8.2% of female deaths, a rise from 7.7% in 2018. 
The University of Pretoria's Diabetes Research Centre further emphasises the severity, citing diabetes as the top killer among NCDs, with 4.3 million South Africans living with the condition and many more undiagnosed.
The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that South Africa's high rates of NCDs, driven by lifestyle factors, are creating a crisis that could overwhelm the healthcare system if unaddressed.
In Gauteng, NCDs have become a focal point of the Department of Health's Corner-to-Corner campaign, an initiative aimed at screening, testing, and raising awareness across communities. "The increasing prevalence of NCDs like diabetes and hypertension highlights the urgency of early detection and intervention," explains Patrick Magodzho, Acting Director for Public Health at GDoH. 
"Our goal is to reach 90% of adults, ensuring they know their blood glucose and blood pressure levels, with at least 60% of those diagnosed receiving treatment, and 50% of treated patients achieving control". He points out. 
Statistics in Gauteng paint a harsh picture: diabetes prevalence has risen to 11.3%, while hypertension rates have jumped sharply, from 29% to 49% in men and 34% to 51% in women between 1998 and 2016. The increase in these lifestyle diseases is particularly concerning in provinces with most urban areas like Gauteng, where fast-paced living, unhealthy diets, and high-stress environments are contributing factors.
In response, Gauteng's Corner-to-Corner campaign prioritises community screenings and public awareness in Townships, Informal settlements and Hostels. Through partnerships with other stakekholders the department aims to improve access to testing and encourage healthier lifestyle choices. "Prevention is key," says Magodzho. 
"By expanding our screenings and health education campaigns, we hope to curb the rapid rise of NCDs that lead to preventable complications," he added.
The department also promotes the #AsibeHealthyGP programme, a health and wellness initiative introduced to address lifestyle diseases and encourage residents to engage in regular exercise, eat nutritious foods and adopt healthier lifestyles. With Gauteng's urban environment contributing to inactive behaviours, poor diets, and increased stress, these risk factors are driving the province's rising NCD rates, especially diabetes and hypertension. 
MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko has been actively involved in this initiative, emphasising that simple lifestyle changes, such as regular physical activity and mindful eating can significantly reduce the prevalence of these diseases. 
As Gauteng moves forward, the Department of Health continues to advocate for early intervention and lifestyle modifications. But as Dr. Phaahla aptly noted, "The battle against lifestyle diseases is far from over."
Thursday, 14 November marks World Diabetes Day (WDD) which will be observed under the theme: Diabetes and Well-being, signifying that with appropriate access to diabetes care and support for their well-being, everyone with diabetes has the chance to live well. The national WDD will take place at the Hammanskraal Community Centre which will also mark the launch of the Gauteng Province NCD Campaign.