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Abstract

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic conditions that develop gradually, often related to personal lifestyles. The impact of NCDs has been increasing due to changes in peoples’ lifestyles related to globalization, urbanization, and environmental changes. Four NCDs: cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, cancer, and chronic respiratory diseases contribute to most deaths. Although these diseases are affecting all countries of the world, they are causing a great deal of burden to low-income countries. Their impact on health, social and economic areas is continuously increasing in these countries.

In sub-Saharan Africa, these diseases, including Ethiopia, are on rise and cause significant burden to the region's population. In Ethiopia, there is a lack of information about the community's understanding, attitudes, and experiences for these diseases. Due to this it has become difficult to prevent these diseases and mobilize the community. This project aims to assess people's perceptions, knowledge, and health practices about NCDs using mixed methods designed to provide general information to the local community, health bureaus, policy makers, NGOs, and stakeholders.

About

Tilahun is a PhD candidate in the Department of Global Health at RSPH. Tilahun completed his BSc in Nursing from Addis Ababa University, and MSc in Pediatric and Child Health from the same university. He has worked as a Graduate Assistant at Samara University and a full-time staff at Bahir Dar University. His research interest includes non-communicable diseases, children’s health, and adult health.