Zambia Initiates Nationwide STEPwise Study to Address Surging Diabetes and Hypertension Cases
The Ministry of Health has launched a nationwide STEPwise Survey aimed at strengthening the prevention and control of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) across the country.
Speaking at the launch held at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, Minister of Health Dr Alex Katakwe said the 2026 Zambia STEPwise Survey (STEPS) will assess the burden of NCDs and their key risk factors nationwide.
The survey, being conducted in collaboration with the World Health Organization and other cooperating partners, comes amid growing concern over the rise in conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
Dr Katakwe noted that non-communicable diseases are now a major public health challenge, accounting for nearly one-third of all deaths in Zambia. Globally, NCDs are responsible for approximately 41 million deaths annually, representing almost three-quarters of all deaths, while in Africa they contribute to about 37 per cent of total mortality.
He said the survey will provide critical data to guide policy decisions and strategic interventions, particularly in the context of changing lifestyles, urbanisation and population growth.
“This initiative is not merely a data collection exercise. It is a critical step towards saving lives, strengthening our health system and building national resilience,” Dr Katakwe said.
The Minister added that the programme aligns with the vision of Hakainde Hichilema, who has prioritised preventive healthcare and strengthened responses to emerging health challenges.
The STEPwise Survey is an internationally recognised methodology for collecting data on NCD risk factors. It combines behavioural assessments, physical measurements and biochemical tests to provide a comprehensive overview of population health.
The exercise is being coordinated by the Zambia National Public Health Institute, with support from the World Bank, the Zambia Statistics Agency and the National Food and Nutrition Commission.
Running from 20 April to 30 June 2026, the survey will be conducted across all ten provinces and will target adults aged between 18 and 69 years. Participants will be scientifically selected to ensure national representation.
Participation is voluntary and confidential, with selected individuals receiving basic health checks, including blood pressure and blood sugar testing, and referrals where necessary.
The findings are expected to inform the development of Zambia’s National Non-Communicable Diseases Strategic Plan for 2027 to 2031, focusing on prevention, early detection and evidence-based interventions.
Dr Katakwe urged members of the public to support the initiative by participating when selected, noting that the data collected will play a key role in shaping future health policies and improving outcomes.
“Each participant represents many others, and your involvement will directly contribute to building a healthier and more productive Zambia,” he said.
