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 1017

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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