What is the trend of non-communicable diseases in South Africa?

Deaths due to non-communicable diseases in South Africa increased by over 58% between 1997 and 2018.

How many adults in South Africa are overweight?

Nearly 40% of the adult population in South Africa is overweight.

Do South Africans meet physical activity guidelines?

Only 19.8% of adults in South Africa meet the WHO's physical activity guidelines, which is significantly lower than the global average.

Home / Health / South Africa's Silent Health Crisis: NCDs Rise

South Africa's Silent Health Crisis: NCDs Rise

30 Mar

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Summary

Non-communicable disease deaths rose over 58% between 1997 and 2018.
Nearly 40% of South African adults are overweight.
Only 19.8% of South African adults meet WHO physical activity guidelines.

South Africa's Silent Health Crisis: NCDs Rise

South Africa is confronting an escalating crisis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and associated fatalities. Between 1997 and 2018, deaths from NCDs like type 2 diabetes and hypertension surged by more than 58%. This health emergency is compounded by high rates of overweight and obesity, affecting nearly 40% of the adult population.

A significant barrier to prevention and management is the low level of physical activity, with 47% of adults not engaging in any exercise and only 19.8% meeting the World Health Organization's recommended guidelines, far below the global average of 73%.