In view of the rising threat of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched an intensive special NCD screening campaign. The initiative aims to strengthen health services through timely detection and prevention.
Key features of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Screening Campaign
- Door-to-door Outreach: Trained ASHAs, ANMs, and frontline workers will reach out to communities door-to-door, ensuring maximum screening coverage.
- Essential Supplies: All States and Union Territories (UTs) have been directed to ensure essential medical supplies at all health centres.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Data related to screening, treatment and follow-up will be uploaded on the NP-NCD portal daily, ensuring transparency and accountability.
- Multi-level Coordination: Nodal officers will be appointed at each facility, block, district and state level for smooth implementation of the campaign.
- Daily Progress Review; States and Union Territories will have to provide updates to the Ministry by 6 pm every day, to ensure continuous monitoring and technical support.
Non-Communicable Diseases
- Definition: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are chronic diseases that do not spread from person to person but impose serious health and economic burden.
Situation in India (as per WHO, 2018)
- 63% of total mortality in India is due to non-communicable diseases.
- Major contributors: Cardiovascular diseases – 27%, Chronic respiratory – 11%, Cancers – 9%, Diabetes – 3%
Reasons for rising cases of NCDs
- Lifestyle Choices
- Tobacco and alcohol consumption
- Unhealthy diet
- Lack of exercise
- Air pollution
- Health Risks
- Obesity
- High Blood Pressure
- High Cholesterol
- High Blood Sugar
- Other Factors
- Stress
- Genetic predisposition
Government Initiatives
- National Programme on Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD): Screening, early diagnosis and raising awareness of non-communicable diseases.
- Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana: Ensuring availability of affordable generic medicines.
- AMRIT Scheme: To provide affordable treatment for cancer and heart diseases.
- Eat Right India Movement: To promote healthy eating habits.
- Ayushman Bharat Scheme: To provide free healthcare services to the poor and underprivileged.