Understanding the Vhembe NCD Study

• Body Content:
  This study responds to the urgent need for rural-focused data on non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in South Africa. NCDs cause over 70% of global deaths and disproportionately affect low- and middle-income countries. In the Vhembe district, data on disease risk and access to care is limited. This project fills that gap using a culturally sensitive, mixed-methods approach—combining household-based screenings and stakeholder interviews to understand community perspectives and health system challenges.

  Key Objectives:

  • Quantify NCD risk factors through community-based screenings.

  • Explore community and stakeholder perspectives on NCDs.

  • Identify barriers to prevention and treatment.

  • Promote linkage-to-care for at-risk individuals.

  • Support policy and practice aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).