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Intensified Non Communicable Disease (NCD) Screening Campaign Launched

Last updated on March 10th, 2025 Posted on February 21, 2025 by NEXT IAS Current Affairs Team  334

Syllabus: GS2/ Health

In News

  • The Government of India has intensified its efforts to combat Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) through the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD). 

About

  • With the establishment of NCD divisions at the National, State, and District levels, the government aims to ensure 100% screening of individuals aged 30 years and above to identify and manage prevalent NCDs, including Diabetes, Hypertension, and common cancers (Oral, Breast, and Cervical).

About Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs)

  • NCDs are chronic diseases that do not spread from person to person but pose significant health and economic burdens. According to the WHO (2018), NCDs account for 63% of all deaths in India, with key contributors being:
    • Cardiovascular Diseases (27%)
    • Chronic Respiratory Diseases (11%)
    • Cancers (9%)
    • Diabetes (3%)
  • The increasing prevalence of NCDs is driven by multiple factors, including lifestyle changes, environmental conditions, and genetic predisposition.
    • Lifestyle Choices: Tobacco use, alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, and air pollution.
    • Health Risks: Obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high blood sugar.
    • Other Factors: Stress and hereditary predisposition.

Implications of NCDs

  • Health Burden: Increased demand for long-term care and treatment.
  • Economic Impact: Loss of productivity and higher medical expenses.
  • Healthcare Inequality: Limited access to early diagnosis in rural areas.

Government Initiatives

  • NP-NCD: Screening, early diagnosis, and awareness programs.
  • PMBJP Scheme: Affordable generic medicines.
  • AMRIT Program: Low-cost treatment for cancer and heart diseases.
  • Eat Right India Movement: Promotes healthy eating habits.
  • Ayushman Bharat: Free healthcare services for the underprivileged.

Way Forward

  • Strengthen Primary Healthcare for prevention and early detection.
  • Promote Healthy Lifestyles through awareness campaigns.
  • Improve Air Quality and reduce pollution-related risks.
  • Enhance Insurance Coverage for affordable treatment.
  • Encourage Public Participation in health initiatives.

Source: AIR

 
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