2003-12-31-世界卫生组织-2004_STEPS_Country_Report_Eritrea_127页_1mb

报告摘要

Summary of the Eritrea National NCD Risk Factor Baseline Survey (2004)

Core Content

The Eritrea National Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Risk Factor Baseline Survey was conducted from August to November 2004 using the WHO STEPwise approach. The survey aimed to establish a baseline for NCD risk factors in Eritrea to support the development of a national NCD surveillance, prevention, and control program.

The survey focused on key risk factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, physical inactivity, poor diet, obesity, and high blood pressure. It was a cross-sectional study covering all nine ethnic groups in Eritrea, with a sample size of 2,304 individuals aged 15–64 years. The data collection was carried out in six Zobas (regions) using a two-stage stratified cluster sampling method.

Main Objectives

Conduct a baseline survey of the main risk factors for major NCDs in urban and rural areas of Eritrea.
Build capacity of Ministry of Health (MoH) staff at all levels to conduct NCD risk factor surveillance.
Establish a national program for early detection, prevention, and control of NCDs and their risk factors.
Develop a community-based surveillance system for NCDs.
Create appropriate IEC (Information, Education, and Communication) materials for NCD prevention and control.

Key Findings

Socio-Demographic Characteristics

The survey captured data on age, sex, source of income, religion, ethnicity, education, and employment status.
The sample was distributed across six Zobas with varying cluster numbers.
Age groups were stratified, and two individuals per age group (1 male and 1 female) were selected for interviews and physical measurements.

NCD Risk Factors

Smoking: Prevalence varied by Zoba, with notable differences by age group and sex.
Smokeless Tobacco Use: Common in certain regions, with specific types used and quantities reported.
Alcohol Consumption: Prevalence also varied by Zoba, age group, and employment status. High daily alcohol consumption was observed in some groups.
Diet: Low fruit and vegetable consumption was a significant issue, with prevalence varying by Zoba, education, and employment.
Physical Activity: Inactivity was prevalent, especially among those with lower educational levels and certain employment statuses.
Obesity: Measured using BMI and waist circumference, with higher prevalence in urban areas and among certain age groups.
High Blood Pressure: A major concern, with significant prevalence across age groups. Awareness and treatment rates were low, with traditional and herbal treatments being more common than modern medical interventions.

Methodology Highlights

Sampling Method: Two-stage stratified cluster sampling with 123 clusters selected from 6 Zobas.
Sample Size: 2,304 individuals, calculated using the formula $N = Z^2 pq / E^2$, with a focus on 15–64 year olds.
Data Collection Tools:
- A standardized questionnaire adapted for Eritrea.
- Physical measurements (height, weight, waist circumference, blood pressure).
Training: Two-day training for data collectors, including interview techniques, questionnaire use, and physical measurement procedures.
Ethical Considerations: Ethical clearance was obtained, and confidentiality of data was ensured.

Challenges and Limitations

Non-response rates were noted, with reasons including reluctance to participate and logistical issues.
Some variables were missing due to data collection challenges.
The absence of a reliable population census made accurate demographic data collection difficult.

Significance of the Study

The survey provides critical baseline data on NCD risk factors in Eritrea, highlighting the growing burden of non-communicable diseases, particularly in the context of a changing epidemiological profile. It shows that while communicable diseases remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, NCDs are increasingly becoming a public health concern. The findings will inform the development of a national NCD surveillance and intervention program, emphasizing the need for health promotion, protection, and control strategies.

Funding and Support

Funding Bodies: Italian Government through WHO/PHARPE program and the Ministry of Health, Eritrea.
Supporting Institutions: Orotta Medical School, College of Nursing, Public Health Training Program of the University of Asmara, and Zoba/Village administrations.
Key Personnel:
- Principal Investigator: Dr. Goitom Mebrahtu (DPC, MOH)
- Co-Principal Investigator: Dr. Abdulmumini USMAN (WHO/PHARPE)
- WHO/AFRO Consultant: Dr. SHU Joseph ATANGA

Conclusion and Recommendations

The survey confirmed the increasing burden of NCDs in Eritrea, particularly hypertension, diabetes, and liver diseases. It also revealed the need for targeted interventions and improved awareness, especially in rural areas. Recommendations include: