Oral

Sixty percent of all deaths in the world are due to NCDs, and the impact in low income countries is devastating. Diabetes mellitus is a global epidemic, currently affecting 246 million people worldwide and continues to grow. By 2025, the largest increases in diabetes prevalence will take place in developing countries. Funding for international health programs have traditionally focused on infectious diseases and maternal and child health, however, awareness is growing among the world community on the need for NCD prevention and wellness programs. Project HOPE has been working to address NCDs since 1998, when a team launched the China Diabetes Education Program. Since then, Project HOPE has developed and implemented NCD programs throughout Latin America, Africa, India, and the US. Our approach includes applying lessons learned from 50 years of work in international health in the areas of maternal and child health and infectious diseases to NCD programs like diabetes. Project HOPE works at every level of the health care system, from tertiary care hospitals to community based programs. Our programs have focused on skills building among healthcare providers at all levels, developing healthy habits and encouraging lifestyle behavior changes among community members, and focusing on linking rural facilities to larger hospitals and networks to increase access to specialized care.

Session Objectives: Describe the current global NCD situation. Explain Project HOPE’s approaches to implementing strong NCD programs. Identify best practices for addressing global NCDs.

CE Credits: Medical (CME), Health Education (CHES), Nursing (CNE), Public Health (CPH)