Participatory Action Research: Importance in addressing chronic non-communicable diseases

Abstract

Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases (CNCDs) account for 74% of all deaths worldwide, with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancer, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes being the leading causes. In Colombia, these conditions constitute the main factor in disease burden, generating significant challenges for the health system, which has traditionally adopted conventional and fragmented models of care. Before presenting the proposal, it is essential to contextualize the central problem: NCCDs require a change in the care model, moving from reactive approaches to proactive, integrated, and person-centered strategies. This policy brief proposes Participatory Action Research (PAR) as a key response to these challenges, highlighting its transformative, critical, and educational nature, and promoting the active participation of communities in the design, implementation, and evaluation of health interventions. PAR favors a proactive and planned approach, centered on the person and their context, ensuring quality care and sustainability over time.