Health experts have raised concern over rising cases of chronic diseases in Africa due to the lack of health insurance to address affordability, education and adherence challenges.
The Programme Director and Chief Medical Officer of Zuri Health, Dr Uzodinma Umeh, who spoke during the launch event themed: “The Burden of Chronic Disease in Nigeria: Launch of MyZuriCare in Addressing the Challenges through Innovation,” pointed out that many Nigerians are unaware they are living with chronic diseases and called for the use of a digital health platform like myZuriMare to arrest the situation.
Umeh while speaking on the burden of chronic illness in the country, highlighted three core issues, high cost of care, lack of health education and non-compliance to medications.
“With rising inflation, people as more preserved disposable to provide for food and self-preservation. Many people with chronic diseases cannot afford the exorbitant cost of hospital visits and medication and would rather self-medicate.
Umeh noted that one of the reasons for poor quality health is that many do not have access to good medical information promptly and people rely on several myths about chronic illness that lead to poor management.
He also pointed out that the rising cost of drugs is being exacerbated by the exit of large pharmaceutical companies, which led to treatment failure and worsening health outcomes, causing many patients to discontinue their treatment.
“This departure has led to a significant shortage of essential medications, increased drug prices and reduced availability of newer, more effective treatments. The local pharmaceutical while growing, has struggled to fill the gap left by these multinationals, resulting in delays and disruptions in the supply chain.
“Consequently, patients are forced to pay higher prices for medications, seek alternative treatments that may be less effective or forgo treatment altogether, leading to poorer health outcomes. A significant yet often overlooked challenge in managing chronic disease is the lack of community support. Many patients with chronic conditions feel isolated and lack the necessary social support networks to help them manage their health effectively. This isolation can lead to mental health, decreased motivation to adhere to treatment plans and an overall decline in well-being,” he said.
Meanwhile, the experts from Zuri Health, in conjunction with myMedicine, an arm of Advantage Health Africa (AHA), aims to improve the lives of Nigerians and by extension, Africans struggling with chronic illnesses. Zuri Health specialises in digital healthcare solutions, while myMedicine operates as a healthcare distribution network.
Umeh said myZuricare offers affordable medications, AI-powered monitoring, telehealth consultations, and robust community support, stating: “The platform encourages and rewards good health behaviour, leading to cost savings, reduced healthcare expenses, improved telemedicine and AI solutions, enhanced quality of life, and increased productivity.
“With myZuricare, patients will have access to stable-priced medications, conveniently delivered to their doorsteps or offices, along with the necessary support. Every patient can consult with a doctor or a nutritionist about primary care issues and manage chronic conditions regularly through our telemedicine services.”
“To drive engagement and improve the quality of life, we have reward programmes that incentivise good health-seeking behaviour. Beneficiaries can earn rewards for maintaining proper health practices.”
Umeh said: “We promote health education through videos, articles, and social media interactions.”
This helps us foster a vibrant health community of informed ambassadors who are excited about taking care of their health and spreading our message.”
Co-founder of Zuri Health, Titilola Olaolu-Hassan, expressed optimism about MyZuriCare’s positive impact on millions of Nigerians struggling to afford medications. She noted that the rising cost of medications has forced many people to stop taking necessary treatments, exposing them to severe risks like stroke. “We want people to take good care of their health despite these economic conditions
“MyZuriCare offers access to quality medications at affordable rates and free consultations with doctors, nutritionists, and supportive communities,” she stated.
AHA Vice President, Market Access, Yewande Adekoya, stressed the rise of chronic diseases, affecting even young adults. “Four out of ten people have at least one chronic illness,” Adekoya noted.
AHA Chief Strategic Alliance and Growth, Mayowa Adeagbo, highlighted MyZuriCare’s role in overcoming affordability barriers. “NCDS (Non-Communicable Diseases) account for many deaths worldwide and place a tremendous burden on healthcare systems, economies, and communities, we have thought innovatively to ensure Nigerians get the care needed at an affordable price,” he added.
