WHO Advances Noncommunicable Disease Care in Africa

The World Health Organization's Regional Office for Africa has continued to support countries in strengthening health systems through innovative approaches to noncommunicable disease care. The 3rd International Conference on PEN-Plus in Africa highlighted significant progress, with 20 countries engaged in implementing the PEN-Plus model and services available in more than 120 district hospitals. Country experiences demonstrate the impact of integrated approaches to care, such as bringing specialized services for conditions like sickle cell disease and type 1 diabetes closer to patients in Cameroon. In The Gambia, expanded HPV vaccination efforts are protecting adolescent girls from cervical cancer. WHO is also advancing action on mental health and promoting the integration of eye, ear, and oral health services into its platforms.