Self-care is healthcare
– The World Health Organization
As health systems worldwide continue to battle with the growing threat of non-communicable diseases, self-care offers low cost, practical and proven solutions. The Global Self-Care Federation is continuing to call for self-care to be fully integrated into policy frameworks and recognized as a fundamental pillar in the fight against NCDs.
Chair of the Global Self-Care Federation
As health systems around the world face mounting pressure, evidence-based self-care offers a promising way forward in the journey to achieving sustainable healthcare and ensuring health and well-being for all. It complements existing healthcare delivery by promoting prevention, informed decision-making, health literacy and the cost-effective management of health. By incorporating self-care into health systems, we can foster healthier populations and optimise the use of healthcare resources.
However, not all individuals and communities around the world have equal access to the evidence-based interventions which encompass self-care. We’re highlighting the value and potential of self-care; raising awareness of obtainable self-care behaviours that are visible, measurable, and actionable. We’re also calling for action from policymakers to embrace self-care as an essential component of healthcare by fully embedding it in national health systems to reduce healthcare expenditure, address gaps in the health workforce, and promote better health outcomes for all.
We must strengthen policies to incentivise individual empowerment and informed self-management to improve outcomes and optimise utilisation of health system resources.
It is time for us all to act on the evidence that shows self-care is healthcare.
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs)
Self-care can be part of the solution to some of the biggest challenges facing global health policy, including non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
The epidemic of NCDs poses devastating health consequences for individuals, communities, and threatens to overwhelm health systems.
NCDs share five major risk factors:
- Tobacco use
- Physical inactivity
- The harmful use of alcohol
- Unhealthy diets
- Air pollution
Self-care practices and responsible use of products can help to prevent individuals from developing NCDs and can also help individuals who live with NCDs to better manage their conditions and prevent them from advancing.
Join the #SelfCareIs movement!
