Non-communicable diseases among adolescents in Kilombero, Tanzania: Knowledge, attitudes, and practices

Introduction: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) include heart disease, cancer, and diabetes mellitus. Globally, NCDs account for approximately 74% of all deaths. Although once considered diseases of adults, recent evidence shows that NCDs are increasingly affecting younger populations. The study assessed knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to risk factors for NCDs among adolescents in Kilombero, Tanzania.Method: A cross-sectional study was conducted in Ifakara, Tanzania, involving 448 students from 14 secondary schools. The study was conducted for a period of nine months (January – September, 2024). Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire capturing nowledge and awareness of NCD risk factors. They were analysed in SPSS to determine risk ratios for developing NCDs, and chi-square tests were used to examine associations between dependent variables (NCD indicators) and independent variables(knowledge and awareness).Results: Most participants (n = 371) were under 18 years old. Awareness was highest for diabetes mellitus (24%). Regarding perceived causes of NCDs, 26.8% attributed them to infections and 26.6% to heredity, while 10.7% did not know. Most participants (62.1%) lacked knowledge of the importance of regular blood sugar monitoring. Diabetes was ranked the most recognised NCD (24.6%), followed by cancer (20.5%) and hypertension (19.4%). BMI classifications showed underweight (16.6%), obesity (12.8%), and overweight (11.3%). Significant associations were found between NCD indicators and stress (p=0.015), alcohol use and age (p=0.025), obesity and lack of exercise (p=0.038), and geographic location (p=0.000).Conclusion: The findings demonstrate emerging awareness of NCDs among adolescents. Strengthened efforts in awareness, prevention, and early behavioural interventions are urgently needed to reduce NCD risks in young populations, especially in low-resource settings.