SS Reporter
Dhaka, 10 July 2025 — Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory conditions now account for over 70% of all deaths in Bangladesh, with out-of-pocket expenses pushing countless families into poverty. In response to this mounting crisis, BRAC, in collaboration with the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) and US-based Medtronic Labs, has launched a national model for technology-enabled, community-based NCD care.
The initiative—unveiled at a national dissemination event at BRAC Centre in Dhaka—marks the official rollout of the “360 Degree NCD Care” model. This comprehensive programme aims to improve early detection, treatment adherence, and long-term patient follow-up through digital tools and community health outreach.
Chief Guest Md Saidur Rahman, Secretary to the Health Services Division, highlighted the urgent need for targeted interventions in hard-to-reach areas. “Door-to-door screening and coordinated data collection will allow us to build a real-time picture of the population’s health,” he said.
Asif Saleh, Executive Director of BRAC, emphasised that sustainable NCD care requires investment in prevention, community health workers, and universal health coverage. “We need to go beyond government action—this model shows what’s possible through strong public-private collaboration,” he said.
The SPICE platform, developed by Medtronic Labs, is central to the model, enabling real-time patient tracking and integration with Bangladesh’s national DHIS2 health database. BRAC’s Community Health Workers (CHWs) use this system to conduct home screenings, refer patients to facilities, and ensure ongoing care.
Dr Md Abu Jafor, DG of DGHS, noted that one in four adults in Bangladesh is hypertensive and one in ten has diabetes—many due to poor diets and sedentary lifestyles. WHO data shows 40% of these deaths are preventable.
Initially piloted in five upazilas, the model achieved 78% hypertension control and 41% diabetes control among over 4,500 patients previously lost to follow-up. The programme now operates in 43 upazilas across seven districts, with plans for national expansion.
Health leaders from BRAC, the World Bank, Intel, and the British High Commission agreed: the path to better NCD care lies in community action, technology, and stronger coordination across sectors. The 360 Degree NCD Care model now stands as a promising blueprint for equitable, nationwide health reform.
