OxCAHT Speaker & Drinks: Role of eHealth in Chronic Disease Management in Low & Middle Income Countries

The burden of chronic diseases is rapidly increasing worldwide. It has been estimated by the World Health Organization that, in 2001, chronic diseases contributed approximately 60% of the 56.5 million total reported deaths in the world and approximately 46% of the global burden of disease. Moreover, the proportion of the burden of non-communicable diseases is expected to increase up to 57% by 2020. Approximately 50% of the total chronic disease deaths are attributable to cardiovascular diseases, with obesity and diabetes occurring earlier in life. Improving quality of care for chronic diseases requires an effective longitudinal medical record that can be used to track patient statuses. Focusing on the empowering application of electronic medical records and other eHealth/mHealth systems to manage healthcare, Dr Fraser will discuss the potential strategies for managing chronic diseases in the LMICs.