Novartis announced the launch of Novartis Access in Kenya, the first country to benefit from a portfolio of 15 affordable medicines to treat cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and breast cancer.
The Novartis portfolio is being offered to the Kenyan government, non-governmental organisations, and other public-sector healthcare providers for US$1 per treatment, per month.
‘Novartis and Kenya have a relationship of more than 40 years, so I am delighted that Kenyan patients will be the first to benefit from Novartis Access,’ said Joerg Reinhardt, Chairman of the Board of Novartis. ‘The successful implementation of the programme in Kenya will be essential to guide the expansion of Novartis Access to other countries in the future.’
Some 28 million people die from chronic diseases in low- and middle-income countries each year, representing 75% of such deaths globally. In Kenya, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for 27% of deaths, or almost 100,000 people per year. By 2030, NCDs are expected to contribute to more than 60% of the total national mortality.
‘I am excited by the proactive steps being taken by our government and Novartis in the fight against cancer and other chronic diseases,’ said H.E. Margaret Kenyatta, First Lady of the Republic of Kenya. ‘Novartis Access complements the advocacy campaign I have been undertaking together with other African First Ladies to expand access to prevention and treatment for people with chronic diseases.’
To find out more about Novartis Access, visit www.novartisaccess.com.
