Global management of chronic disease in sub-Saharan Africa: A call to action for pharmacists

Document Type

Article

Publication Title

Journal of the American Pharmacists Association

Abstract

Objectives: To shed light on the growing prevalence of type 2 diabetes in sub-saharan Africa and to highlight the important role that pharmacists can play in addressing this growing global concern. Summary: The combination of scarce health care resources, a lack of general awareness and data to drive new policies, and the severe shortage of health workers has contributed to the escalation of chronic disease in sub-Saharan Africa. The profession of pharmacy offers extensive knowledge on disease and medication management that has proven to yield positive health outcomes. Deploying pharmacists from the United States who can train and support community health workers in sub-Saharan Africa and in other resource constrained settings may help address many of the challenges that currently exist. Conclusion: Despite the many challenges sub-Saharan Africa faces in overcoming the current and growing burden of chronic disease, pharmacists can make substantial contributions in addressing these challenges and creating sustainable solutions.

DOI

10.1331/JAPhA.2012.12072

Publication Date

1-1-2012

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