‘Chronic and Non-communicable Diseases in Ethiopia’ the Seventh Public Lecture Held

The Seventh Public Lecture of the year in a monthly series entitled ‘Chronic and Non-communicable Diseases in Ethiopia’ was held on Thursday 7 April, 2016 at the Auditorium of the Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa Institute of Technology (AAiT). The Public Lecture was delivered by a distinguished Internist, Chronic and Non-communicable Diseases Specialist and Founding Fellow of the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences, Dr. Shitaye Alemu. Professor Sileshi Lulseged, Founding Fellow of the Ethiopian Academy of Sciences and Chairman of the Health Working Group Chaired the Public Lecture.

The Public Lecture focused on the most devastating and crucial health threats of the present day, chronic and non-communicable diseases. The health hazards on the lives of many due to life styles in relation to diet, exercise and overall aspect of our day-to-day lives, was the major focus of the Public Lecture.

Chronic and non-communicable diseases are non-contagious in nature. Unlike communicable diseases chronic and non-communicable diseases can be avoided and contained through improved life-style.

In the developed world there is awareness on chronic and non-communicable diseases. Numerous ways can be stated as to how the developed nations attempt to control these diseases. Of these; improving lifestyle, diet selection and control, understanding family history and the habit of regular exercising are the major ones.

The presentation by Dr. Shitaye mainly focused on four of the major chronic and non-communicable diseases, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetics and cancer. Participants raised various questions and concerns based on their personal and family experiences.

In her conclusion, Dr. Shitay stressed on the attention and efforts that need to be invested to tackle these health problems. She also noted on the potential threat and the inevitable damage that the wide and rapid spread of these chronic diseases will result in if not properly addressed. Dr. Shitaye alerted the attendants to play their part in tackling these health hazards.

People representing various governmental and non-governmental organizations, students and instructors of medical institutions, individuals representing research institutions, university students, high school students, EAS and EtYAS Fellows and individuals from the general public attended the Public Lecture.

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