Challenges and opportunities to addressing non-communicable diseases after climate-related disasters in Mozambique: a qualitative study.
Individuals with NCDs struggle to manage their conditions during extreme weather events in Mozambique, highlighting the need for integrated disaster preparedness strategies.
Where it sits
this study against the rest of the dnsp-11 (dopamine neuron stimulating peptide-11) corpusSummary and findings
This study investigates the challenges and opportunities for managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Mozambique following extreme weather events. It involved 36 in-depth interviews and five focus group discussions with stakeholders and individuals affected by NCDs. The findings highlight significant barriers to NCD management during disasters.
Abstract
<h4>Introduction</h4>Low- and middle-income countries are facing a new double burden: an increasing frequency of extreme weather events that disrupt healthcare services for people living with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and a rising prevalence of NCDs. In Mozambique, NCDs are the second leading cause of death among adults, and climate-related disasters, occurring with increasing intensity, exacerbate this problem.<h4>Objective</h4>This study aims to understand the challenges and opportunities for addressing the needs of persons living with NCDs in the aftermath of extreme weather events in Mozambique between 2019 and 2023.<h4>Methods</h4>This qualitative study employed a combination of focus group discussions (FGD) and in-depth interviews in five provinces severely affected by cyclones. A total of 36 in-depth interviews were conducted with key stakeholders and individuals living with NCDs. Five FGDs were held with community members. Rapid qualitative analysis was used to identify themes, which were presented using the socioecological model (SEM) framework.<h4>Results</h4>Three main themes and 14 subthemes emerged. The main themes were: (1) an overall lack of disaster preparedness leading to challenges for the general population; (2) persons with NCDs could not adequately manage their condition; and (3) the need to integrate NCD management into disaster preparedness and response plans. Barriers to NCD management were identified at all levels of the SEM, with the majority at the organisational level. Participants identified recommendations that can serve as models for addressing some identified barriers.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Persons living with NCDs cannot adequately manage their conditions during extreme weather events in Mozambique due to barriers at all levels of the SEM. Addressing this challenge requires multilevel strategies that integrate NCD management into disaster preparedness and response plans, leverage existing programmes and strengthen health system resilience. Future work needs to evaluate the implementation of integrated disaster response plans to inform scale-up and scale-out.
Background
This paper addresses the intersection of climate-related disasters and the management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in low- and middle-income countries, particularly Mozambique. Prior knowledge indicates that NCDs are a leading cause of mortality in these regions, exacerbated by extreme weather events. Understanding the challenges faced by individuals with NCDs during such crises is crucial for developing effective response strategies.
Methods
The study utilized a qualitative design involving focus group discussions and in-depth interviews conducted in five provinces of Mozambique affected by cyclones from 2019 to 2023. A total of 36 in-depth interviews were performed with key stakeholders and individuals living with NCDs, alongside five focus group discussions with community members. Rapid qualitative analysis was employed to identify themes within the socioecological model framework.
Results
The study identified three main themes: (1) an overall lack of disaster preparedness, (2) challenges for persons with NCDs in managing their conditions, and (3) the necessity to integrate NCD management into disaster preparedness and response plans. Specific barriers to NCD management were reported at all levels of the socioecological model, predominantly at the organisational level.
Interpretation
The findings align with existing literature highlighting the vulnerabilities of individuals with NCDs during disasters. While the study identifies significant barriers, the qualitative nature of the research limits the ability to quantify the effect size or generalize findings. The implications suggest a need for integrated disaster response plans that consider the unique challenges faced by this population.
Key findings
- Three main themes emerged: lack of disaster preparedness, inadequate management of NCDs, and the need for integration of NCD management into disaster response plans.
- Barriers to NCD management were identified at all levels of the socioecological model, with the majority at the organisational level.
- Participants provided recommendations to address identified barriers.
Limitations
- Qualitative study may not be generalizable beyond Mozambique.
- Subjective reports may introduce bias.
- No quantitative data reported.