Bangladesh’s silent crisis: Preventable diseases push millions into poverty
Bangladesh faces a growing health crisis as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now cause over two-thirds of all deaths. Many of these conditions could be prevented with stronger primary care, yet the system remains weak in both rural and urban areas. A former World Bank health specialist has now urged reforms to prioritise prevention and ease financial burdens on families.
The country’s health system currently focuses on treating illnesses rather than preventing them. This approach has left millions struggling with high out-of-pocket costs—nearly five million people fall into extreme poverty each year due to medical expenses. Experts argue that early detection of conditions like hypertension and diabetes could cut severe complications by 40%, reducing the need for costly hospital care.
Strengthening community-based and preventive care could drastically reduce Bangladesh’s disease burden. With better coordination, staffing, and funding, primary health services might ease the financial strain on households. The push for reform aims to make early detection and affordable care a reality for millions.
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