Emergence of Cardiovascular Diseases and Inclusive Organization of Care in the Health District of Biyem-Assi, Yaounde Cameroon

Abstract

Healthcare financing is one of the major challenges that faces the emergence of non-communicable diseases. This study describes and analyzes the inclusive organization of cardiovascular disease care in Biyem-Assi Health District. From December 2022 to February 2023, we conducted a qualitative study in the Biyem-Assi Health District. Medical anthropology research techniques were used to collect data through interview guides. The sample consisted of patients admitted and followed during the study period. The epidemiological variables studied included age, sex, diagnosis, length of hospital stay, lifestyle, socioeconomic status, knowledge, and modalities of cardiovascular disease (CVD) management, as well as practices aimed at eradicating this scourge. Cardiovascular disease mortality is currently the highest. It affects a young population, so diagnosis is often made late. Very few international technical and financial partners have a real strategy to support prevention and management programs for non-communicable diseases, especially cardiovascular diseases. Faced with the growing incidence of cardiovascular diseases in sub-Saharan Africa, mainly in Cameroon, it is urgent to develop a response or rethink a new organization of cardiovascular disease care, involving and mobilizing numerous technical and financial partners, public authorities, and directly concerned healthcare professionals.