They all live with noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) and navigate the challenges of managing their conditions on a daily basis. Now, the COVID-19 pandemic has made their reality even more severe.
Produced by BBC StoryWorks and possible thanks to NCD Alliance’s partnership with Access Accelerated, NCD care in a global crisis offers a candid view into the lives of these four advocates living with diverse NCDs: bipolar disorder, diabetes, cancer, and kidney disease. They share the challenges they face each day – from the lack of access treatment to coping with the emotional burden that often accompanies a long-term condition.
With the COVID-19 pandemic, it has become more challenging for them and other people living with NCDs around the globe to manage their conditions, due to restrictions in movement, disruption in NCD services, as well as fear of seeking treatment due to the risk of contracting COVID-19. Importantly, they shine light on the cracks in our health systems globally to concurrently address acute and chronic pandemics (NCDs) with growing evidence of disrupted NCD services. People living with NCDs are highly impacted by COVID-19 in ways that are deepening the threat of NCDs, including mental health and exacerbating inequalities.
More than one in five people globally have at least one underlying condition that puts them at increased risk of severe of COVID-19 if infected. A majority of them are people living with NCDs. Their expertise can help us secure a safe, healthy and sustainable future for all.