Know Your Numbers

Jan 20, 2020

#KnowYourNumbers: A Campaign for a Healthier Kenya

Kenya is facing a silent crisis. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer—are rising at an alarming rate. These chronic conditions now account for over 55% of hospital deaths, compared to 24.4% just two decades ago. Yet, the vast majority of Kenyans remain unaware of their risk factors or how to take action to protect their health.

The #KnowYourNumbers campaign was born out of an urgent need to bridge this gap. At its core, this initiative seeks to empower individuals to understand five critical health metrics that are key to preventing and managing NCDs:

• Blood Pressure: 56% of Kenyans have never had their blood pressure checked.
• Blood Sugar: 87.8% have never been screened for diabetes risk.
• Cholesterol: A staggering 97.7% have never tested their cholesterol levels.
• Waist Circumference and BMI: Many remain unaware of the risks associated with abdominal obesity and unhealthy weight.

 

These numbers are more than just figures—they represent a call to action. Without regular screenings, early detection, and lifestyle adjustments, thousands of preventable deaths occur each year, straining families and the healthcare system alike.

The Mission

The #KnowYourNumbers campaign is a beacon of hope, built on three key objectives:

1. Raise Awareness: Through education, we aim to shine a light on NCD risk factors, symptoms, and the importance of prevention.
2. Promote Early Detection: Encouraging Kenyans to prioritize regular health screenings is central to saving lives.
3. Improve Treatment Adherence: By working closely with patients, healthcare providers, and policymakers, we highlight the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and consistent medication use.

Reaching Every Kenyan

This campaign targets a diverse audience:

1. At-risk populations and patients, providing them with tools to take charge of their health.
2. Healthcare providers (HCPs), strengthening their capacity to promote preventive care.
3. Policymakers and health system leaders, such as the Ministry of Health and NCD Alliance Kenya, support systemic change.
4. Health journalists, amplify our message through trusted media platforms.

A Call to Action

The numbers don’t lie: Kenya is at a crossroads. But with the #KnowYourNumbers campaign, we can reverse the tide of NCDs. Together, we can create a future where every Kenyan understands their health, takes proactive steps to safeguard it, and lives a longer, healthier life.

It’s time to take charge. It’s time to #KnowYourNumbers.