The National Integrated Policy for Non-Communicable Diseases Prevention and Control in The Gambia 2012-2016.

This National Integrated Policy provides strategic direction for the prevention, management and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country, in order to guide the Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, partners and stakeholders in addressing the challenges posed by chronic disease, with emphasis on the best approach to reduce the social determinants responsible for unhealthy lifestyle. The Policy objectives are: reducing the major risk factors of the non-communicable diseases (tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity and unhealthy diet); strengthening comprehensive approach for health promotion and primary prevention; improving capacity of health system to prevent, diagnose and manage NCDs through standard guidelines and protocol appropriate to various levels of health care; developing a national surveillance system for NCDs and their risk factors; changing dietary habits for a healthier lifestyle. The Policy is inspired by the following guiding principles: protection of the right to health; affordable and sustainable NCD prevention and control services; evidence based information for planning, implementation monitoring and evaluation of programmes; community and family empowerment and participation; capacity building.