Most Nepalis hesitate to start medicines for non-communicable diseases
Summary
Many Nepalis with non-communicable diseases hesitate to start prescribed medications due to high costs, fear of side effects, and limited access to free medicines, putting them at risk of serious health complications.
Key Points
- Many patients with non-communicable diseases in Nepal avoid starting prescribed medicines due to costs and fear of side effects.
- State-run health facilities provide some free medicines, but supply shortages discourage patients from relying on them.
- Around half of those with non-communicable diseases are unaware of their condition, and only 10-15 percent take prescribed medications.
- Non-communicable diseases account for over 70 percent of deaths in Nepal, with increasing burden over recent years.
