Diagnóstico situacional sobre políticas públicas, programas e ações de atenção às doenças crônicas não transmissíveis no Senegal : propostas para ações de saúde.

Abstract

Introduction of the dissertation: Senegal is a West African country facing social and health vulnerabilities. In recent years, it has experienced a rising prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs), making it relevant to deepen the understanding of how its public policies, programs, and actions addressing NCDs are structured and implemented. General objective of the dissertation: To conduct a situational analysis of public policies, health programs, and actions aimed at the care of individuals with non-communicable chronic diseases in Senegal. Manuscript I. Public policies and actions against chronic diseases in Senegal: health teranga. Introduction: Senegal is facing social and health vulnerabilities along with a rising prevalence of non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs). Objective: To identify and characterize public policies, programs, and actions to combat NCDs in Senegal. Methods: This is a qualitative documentary study employing a situational analysis approach, conducted between April and October 2024. The study included documents obtained from the official website of the Senegalese government. Results: A total of 240 documents were analyzed, including surveys, reports, analyses, and information sheets, of which 25 addressed NCDs. These documents highlighted the need for community engagement, technical capacity-building, and improvements in health system management. Conclusion: The situational diagnosis revealed that the analyzed documents reflect a recent shift in health public policies towards the prevention of non-communicable chronic diseases. Structural and infrastructural health reforms are necessary to achieve effectiveness in reducing the prevalence of chronic diseases in the country. Manuscript II. Structural and cultural influence in primary care in senegal: an experience report. Introduction: In promoting health for a given population, especially in the context of primary care, it becomes essential to consider the effects of social determinants of health. Among these, cultural aspects retain significant importance. Objective: The aim of the present study is to shed light on the influence of Senegalese cultural determinants on population health through the account of a transcultural experience within primary care in a rural region of Senegal. Methods: This is an experience report based on activities conducted within a semi-private health unit belonging to the primary care network of a non-governmental organization (NGO) located in rural Senegal, between April and October 2024. Results and conclusion: Senegal has a vibrant culture, predominantly conservative in its customs. These deeply rooted aspects of its way of life shape the population’s health, with observable influence from globalization on dietary habits and lifestyle. The transcultural experience enabled a deeper understanding of how such cultural dynamics occur and how the distinctive features of Senegalese culture influence and determine public health outcomes.