Over the past 6 months, the NIHR Global Health Research Center: Community Management of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), in Latin America, NIHR LatAm, has made significant strides in its mission to improve health in the region. This center is a collaboration between universities in Guatemala, Bolivia, Colombia, and the United Kingdom, focusing on research and capacity building in health.
Education and Training
One of the center’s most important pillars is academic training. Between May and October 2024, formal education programs were updated, offering master’s and doctoral degrees in key areas such as clinical epidemiology, biostatistics, neuroscience, and public health. To date, 13 students have been admitted to postgraduate programs, with a notable participation of women (53%) and ethnic diversity. Additionally, 16 center members completed certifications in good clinical practices, and workshops on scientific writing and protocol development were conducted.
Despite obstacles related to a lack of experience in applied research, the center remains committed to strengthening local capacities and expanding training opportunities.
Research
In terms of research, the center has progressed in three important phases:
- Situational Analysis: A scientific manuscript was produced based on the capacity for community management of NCDs, including mental health, in 25 health centers in Bolivia, Colombia, and Guatemala. The results revealed, for instance, that hypertension is more prevalent in Colombia and Guatemala, while obesity affects Bolivia more.
- DIALOG+ Feasibility Pilot : The feasibility of a therapeutic
model in primary care, based on digital solutions for mental health, was evaluated. A total of 66 patients participated in this phase in the three countries. Preliminary results are promising, and some professionals are already implementing the tool in their routine consultations. - Multifamily Groups – Pilot Intervention : This feasibility study is under ethical review and seeks to study the feasibility of group interventions to improve community management of NCDs.
Community Engagement and Cultural Mapping
The panel of patients with lived experiences (LEAP) has enabled communities to be involved in the development of health strategies. A cultural mapping project has also begun in Guatemala, Colombia, and Bolivia to identify artistic and cultural resources that can be integrated into health promotion. This project aims to raise awareness of the importance of art in mental health and NCDs.
Challenges and Opportunities
Among the main challenges for the center are the lack of specialised resources and difficulties in accessing healthcare services, worsened by geographic and economic distances. Nevertheless, the center sees opportunities to leverage the region’s cultural diversity and continue strengthening local capacities through the creation of collaborative research networks.
In conclusion, NIHR LatAm continues to advance its mission to improve community management of NCDs and mental health in Latin America.
