SYN-X Project

This project is focused on exploring innovation to address the epidemic of hypertension and diabetes.

The Problem


Syndrome X also called metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Metabolic syndrome includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist and abnormal cholesterol levels. 


Diabetes and hypertension are the two most common non-communicable diseases suffered by the elderly population in Nigeria. The morbidity and mortality from these two diseases have been on the increase in the recent past in Nigeria and they often co-exist. 

Where do we come in?

Over the years, the incidence of hypertension and diabetes has risen significantly, owing to various risk factors like age, obesity, lifestyle, and poor dietary habits. Among non-communicable diseases, diabetes has become a significant problem in Sub-Saharan Africa, with Nigeria being the most affected country.

It is expected that the total number of people living with diabetes will rise to 336 million by 2030, compared to 171 million in 2000.  The number of adults living with hypertension is expected to reach 1.56 billion people by 2025, representing an alarming 60% increase.

Major Challenges Faced:


  • Lack of proper health information on prevention and care.
  • Complications following undiagnosed and poorly diagnosed cases.
  • Lack of follow-up and patients' patronage of patent medical dealers and herbal medications.
  • Fear of possible stigmatisation 
  • Not my portion syndrome

    • Program Goals

    Increase Awareness:

    Increase awareness of metabolic diseases and encourage prevention ( early diagnosis), especially in rural communities.

    Access:

    Increase access to screening and linkage to care

    Monitor and Followup:

    Using data and analytics to monitor and follow up with beneficiaries to establish behavioural change 

    Behavioural Change:

    Establish behavioural change towards better adherence to treatment and zero stigma.

    Our Approach:

    Awareness Campaign

    Screening Exercise

    Consultations and Counselling

    Free Medications

    Linkage to Care

    Sustainability:

    We have developed a  9-12 month follow-up plan for beneficiaries during which we monitor:

    Participants' understanding of the nature of the diseases and the idea of achieving control and not cure.

    Participants' willingness to take medications regularly as prescribed

    Number of times the participants go for follow-up clinic visits within this period .

    Our Milestones

    +2

    Projects

    +32

    On Follow-up

    +182

    Screened for diabetes and hypertension

    +47

    Linked to Care

    Become a Member

    YOHAN Africa programs endeavour to effectively engage the African youth towards innovative promotion of holistic health in communities across the continent through health education, low-cost targeted interventions, and advocacy

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