Narrative Review of Chronic Disease Prevention Strategies

Atukunda Derrick

Department of Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Biotechnology Kampala International University Uganda

Email: derrick.atukunda@studwc.kiu.ac.ug

                                                                  ABSTRACT
Chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer, represent a growing global public health challenge, accounting for approximately 63% of worldwide deaths, with a disproportionate burden in low- and middle-income countries. This narrative review synthesizes evidence on strategies to prevent and manage chronic diseases across primary, secondary, and tertiary levels of intervention. Primary prevention approaches emphasize lifestyle modification, behavioral interventions, and environmental and policy measures to reduce exposure to risk factors such as tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity, and excessive alcohol consumption. Secondary and tertiary strategies focus on early detection, risk reduction, disease management, rehabilitation, and long-term care to prevent disease progression, enhance quality of life, and reduce morbidity and mortality. Community-based approaches, social determinants of health, cultural and contextual considerations, and health equity are critical factors influencing the effectiveness and sustainability of interventions. Implementation science and monitoring and evaluation frameworks are vital for scaling up successful interventions and ensuring long-term impact. Despite progress, gaps remain in understanding the implementation of evidence-based strategies and addressing disparities in access to prevention programs. Future directions emphasize culturally tailored, equity-focused, and multi-level approaches to reduce the global burden of chronic diseases.

Keywords: Chronic diseases; Primary prevention; Secondary prevention; Tertiary prevention; and Health equity.

CITE AS: Atukunda Derrick (2025). Narrative Review of Chronic Disease Prevention Strategies. IDOSR JOURNAL OF APPLIED SCIENCES 10(3):170-177. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSRJAS/2025/103.170177