The overall purpose of the Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit (NCDRU) is to formulate and apply an integrated programme of research and capacity development to improve the understanding, detection, prevention and management of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), with a major initial focus on cardiovascular and metabolic disorders in South Africa.
Key focus areas
- Foster greater understanding of the burden, mechanisms and determinants of NCDs
- Develop, apply and evaluate interventions for the detection, prevention and management of NCDs
- Address conditions and challenges that are unique to the South African environment
- Develop and adopt new health technological approaches to NCDs
- Translate new and existing knowledge into policy and practice, and
- Develop research capacity and interdisciplinary collaboration and maximize the output of existing research efforts.
News & Celebrations
During April, the SAMRC, through the Corporate and Marketing Communications Division (CMC), began a necessary campaign to engage communities on its work and impact. With a greater emphasis on visibility and community, this effort, in addition to other consistent efforts like Bophelo, sees the organisation and its scientists sharing evidence-based information with the public.
The SAMRC in collaboration with community radio stations, are bringing to you “Conversations about scientific health research”. For the start of the campaign that began its first steps in Cape Town, the CMC are proud to partner with three community radio stations, namely, Bush Radio 89.5FM, Cape Community FM 107.5 and Zibonele FM 98.2.
Community radio stations play a crucial role in raising awareness and educating the public on pressing health issues. By facilitating conversations on key health topics, they help to bridge a gap between scientific findings and community understanding, ultimately empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their well-being. Dr Nireshni Chellan (BRIP) started off the campaign, and Dr Cindy George and Dr Dipuo Motshwari (NCDRU) joined the Zibonele listeners for an in-studio interview. The studio, located in Khayelitsha, gave a warm welcome and an authentic interview, asking questions in the interest of its audience about chronic kidney disease (CKD)
The campaign hopes to soon reach community radio stations within the Kwa-Zulu Natal and Gauteng regions.
Listen to the very first interview with Dr Nireshni Chellan, talking about diabetes on Zibonele FM: Podcasts | SAMRC
In honour of World Hypertension Day, the Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit (NCDRU), in collaboration with HR Wellness and Communications & Marketing, hosted an impactful health and wellness event under the theme: “Take Control, Know Your Numbers 2025.”
Held on 16 May 2025 at the SAMRC Conference Centre, the event brought together staff across the organisation for a meaningful day focused on cardiovascular health awareness and prevention.
With cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) still the leading cause of death globally, claiming nearly 17.9 million lives annually, the event emphasized the importance of knowing and managing key risk indicators like blood pressure, glucose levels, cholesterol, BMI, and kidney function.
One of the day’s highlights was the Walking Challenge led by Prof Liesl Zühlke, supported by the office of Corporate & Marketing Communications, which took place between 12h00 and 13h30. Participants were invited to start anytime during this slot and complete as many laps as possible around the designated walking route.
All walkers were entered into a lucky draw, with an additional prize for the person who completed the most laps. Participants registered at the walking desk, collected their branded bibs, and got moving in support of heart health!
We thank everyone who participated and contributed to making the day a success. Your health is your greatest asset, take control and know your numbers!
View some of the moments of the day | HERE
The Non-Communicable Diseases Research Unit proudly congratulates Dr Jillian Hill, Specialist Scientist, on being selected for the first cohort of the SAMRC STAR (Strategic and Targeted Approach to Research) capacity building programme.
The programme was launched on 21 May 2025 at the SAMRC Conference Centre, with opening remarks from Prof Liesl Zuhlke and a video message from Prof Ntobeko Ntusi.
The 11 selected participants were introduced to the programme’s focus areas:
Intrapersonal Development
Functional Development
People, Systems and Processes
We are proud of Dr Hill’s achievement and wish her and the cohort all the best on this exciting journey.
