Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), commonly referred to as lifestyle diseases, significantly impact global mortality rates and diminish individuals’ quality of life. To combat this growing health concern, it is essential to equip the public with knowledge on effectively managing NCDs through lifestyle modifications and behaviour change. This report highlights an initiative undertaken by fourth-year dietetics students on 13 June 2023, aimed at raising awareness about the nutritional management and prevention of prevalent NCDs, including type 2 diabetes, hypertension, and dyslipidaemia, within the Daspoort community.         

The primary objective of this endeavour was to educate community members on the critical aspects of NCDs, including their underlying risk factors, associated consequences, and practical strategies for prevention and management. By disseminating accurate and relevant information, we aimed to empower individuals with the necessary tools to make informed decisions regarding their health.

The awareness day, meticulously planned and executed, garnered substantial community engagement and adherence to the structured programme. Drawing inspiration from the words of Hippocrates, ‘Let thy food be thy medicine and thy medicine be thy food,’ the team provided the community with comprehensive education on adopting optimal dietary practices. Educational sessions focused on distinguishing between refined and unrefined carbohydrates, understanding the nuances of different dietary fats (saturated and trans vs. unsaturated), and embracing alternatives to excessive salt consumption.

Recognising the multidimensional nature of NCDs, our initiative embraced a collaborative approach involving diverse stakeholders. To provide a holistic perspective, medical students delivered an informative talk highlighting the risk factors associated with NCDs and their consequences. Representatives from the Community Oriented Substance Use Programme (COSUP) supplemented the discussions by shedding light on the intricate relationship between substance use and NCDs. The active involvement of community members, who shared their personal experiences and practical insights into effecting positive dietary changes, further enriched the educational platform.

The awareness day on nutritional management and prevention of NCDs in the Daspoort community served as a pivotal platform for disseminating crucial knowledge and empowering residents to address their health concerns proactively. By promoting optimal dietary practices, addressing underlying risk factors, and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, we aspire to cultivate a culture of prevention and effective management of NCDs within the Daspoort community and beyond.

We express our heartfelt gratitude to the following individuals and organisations whose invaluable contributions were instrumental in the success of our awareness day:

• Mr Luiz Jardin from Danville Spar, whose generous provision of bread served as a nutritious lunch for the attendees
• The Malusi Youth Development Centre (MYDO) for its unwavering support in supplying serving plates and facilitating a smooth and efficient event
• Mrs Mariete Roets, whose remarkable generosity extended to providing us with herbal samples, which served as practical demonstrations of salt alternatives, as well as her contribution of 250 spinach seedlings aimed at encouraging community members to embark on their own home gardening endeavours
• Ms Sara Mojapelo for actively demonstrating gardening techniques to the community members
• Dr Gerhard Botha and Daspoort staff members, Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery (MBChB) students, and our lecturers