Self-Care Interventions and Prevention Strategies for Non-Communicable Diseases in Pakistan: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are one of the leading cause of mortality in Pakistan, with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, cancers, and mental health disorders contributing significantly to premature deaths. Strengthening self-care interventions and prevention strategies is essential to mitigate this burden.

Methods: A structured search was conducted in Dimensions to identify open-access publications addressing self-care, community-based prevention, adolescent risk reduction, pharmacy-led interventions, and quality-of-care improvements for NCDs in Pakistan and South Asia. Eight relevant publications were identified and grouped according to intervention approach.

Results: Evidence indicates that structured health education improves diabetes self-management and glycemic control. Community participatory interventions enhance prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory conditions, and mental health disorders . Adolescent-focused tobacco and air pollution prevention strategies target modifiable risk exposures early in life. Pharmacy-based service expansion improves accessibility to screening, counseling, and adherence support. Quality-of-care strengthening across South Asia supports continuity and sustainability of self-management programs.

Conclusion: Multi-level self-care interventions integrated into strengthened primary healthcare systems are essential to reduce NCD burden in Pakistan. Future implementation research should focus on scalability, cost-effectiveness, and health system integration.