Description
Background:
Globally, non-communicable diseases (N CDs) are the leading cause of mortality, responsible for over 70% of annual deaths. In Kenya, N CDs account for 39% of deaths, a burden that continues to rise due to urbanization, lifestyle changes, and limited access to affordable care. Yet, most programs emphasize clinical management while overlooking the lived experiences of people living with N CDs (PLWNCDs). This omission undermines adherence, fuels stigma, and weakens community engagement in health decision-making. A people-centered approach that integrates patient voices is therefore critical.
Objective:
To document how patient-led support groups at Ruai Health Center transform lived experiences into a model for None Communicable disease care, advocacy, and improved outcomes.
Methods:
The facility’s primary care team supported patients to establish a voluntary support group. Monthly two-hour patient-led sessions provided space to share treatment journeys, challenges, and coping strategies on adherence, nutrition, stigma, discrimination, and side effects. Sessions included counseling and health education. Beyond the facility, members promoted healthy lifestyles in the community and engaged in local health forums to influence care and resource allocation.
Results:
Two hundred patients enrolled over one year, with average monthly attendance of 150. Treatment adherence improved from 20% (June 2023–June 2024) to 85% (July 2024–July 2025). Self-reported stigma decreased by 40%, while referrals for uncontrolled hypertension and diabetes dropped from five to one per quarter. Community Health Promoters reached 100 households with None Communicable disease education. Patient advocacy also secured inclusion of NCD services in facility budgets.
Conclusion:
Patient-led support groups improved adherence, reduced stigma, and strengthened health-seeking behavior. With support from clinicians, nurses, and Community Health promoters they present a scalable, people-centered model for Noncommunicable Disease management that advances Universal Health Coverage and Sustainable Development Goal 2030 targets.
Keywords: Non-communicable diseases, patient-led support groups, adherence, stigma reduction, community engagement, Universal Health Care
| Country | Kenya |
|---|---|
| Organization | Government of Kenya |
| Position | Nursing Officer |
| Received a Grant? | No |
