Date :- 24th November 2024 (4 P.M to 6 P.M)
Venue:- MELMANA GARDENS OORAMANA
Non-Communicable diseases – A major public health issue.
Shri. P.H Kurian IAS
Detailed Summary
There is an alarming increase in the incidence of non-communicable diseases (NCDS)at present in India. The recommendation is to reduce the level by 30%. But not much importance is given to prevent the hype in incidence.
Regarding communicable diseases proper control and treatment measures are developed , adopted and the people are well aware of it and therefore they take appropriate measures at the appropriate time. But in case of NCDS, prevention is not given the desirable importance . So we have to develop a strategy to check the increase in incidence. Strategies can be initiated at the global, national , state, local and sub-local levels. But the strategy from the bottom up would be the most effective option for that is the best approach for a larger community involvement. In the case of communicable diseases , there are built in strategies right from the grassroot level. Example:- Immunisation. There was a concerted effort to control population growth and it did bear fruits. But in the case of NCDS, such earnest efforts are lacking and demands a multi focal approach , enabling to communicate to all sections of society.
Main causes of NCDS
1) Lack of Physical Activity
This is one of the major contributory causes for NCDS. At present we have limited space for exercise like aerobic exercise. As we know we have a large area of unused public land which are encroached , which makes free movements difficult. If policies are evolved under sub-local levels to liberate such lands , people can freely use them for exercise.
Another area we can think of is the space available in L.P schools . At present the attendance level at each L.P school is very low. SO if admission is limited to the full strength , the land of the remaining school compound can be allotted as public utility space for exercise. This can be thought of under the sub-local level ie:- panchayath level. So there should be transformative change. To cite an example there are 9700 engineers in the irrigation department while there are only 9300 engineers in the PWD . An investigative division is in existence in the irrigation department since last 16 years. This shows the unscientific situation in the distribution of public infrastructure. In the health department there is a separate section for public health , but there is no NCDS officer. These are some examples where govt. agencies should focus on positive changes. As has been already mentioned , awareness creation needs to start from bottom.
2) Diet
Diet has got an important role in prevention of NCDS. A new culture has to be developed in our diet. A diet low in carbohydrate is desirable for diabetes mellitus is one of the major NCDS among Keralites. As in any industry, food industry also depends on the principle of investment , investment protection and regulatory control by the state. There should be proper mechanism for quality control. In the area of quality control , so many factors come into play and it is in such a scenario where NGOs and most importantly individuals can effectively contribute. So self-awareness ie:- “My health is my responsibility” is most important. So a transformative change is the need of the hour. Self-responsibility is always better than prevention. Millet is one of the items to control NCDS.
Following that an interesting interactive session ensued . The questions on alcoholism, antibiotic resistance, prevention of addictions, and quality control were answered elaborately. Further information was provided by the key note speaker in the WhatsApp group.
Dr. P. O. Abraham
Executive Secretary.
Appendix
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) – A major public health issue in Kerala
The alarming prevalence of NCDs in Kerala, indicates ICMR-INDIAB (ICMR- India Diabetes) study -2023
(Source – The Hindu June 09, 2023 08:37 pm | Thiruvananthapuram)
Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in Kerala:
• Significant Health Burden: NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and lung diseases pose a major threat to public health in Kerala.
• Rising Prevalence: The aging population and lifestyle changes are contributing to the increasing prevalence of NCDs.
• Economic Impact: The high cost of treatments and medications for NCDs places a significant financial burden on individuals and families, especially low-income groups.
• Environmental Factors: The impact of environmental factors, such as air pollution and climate change, on the prevalence of NCDs.
• Early Detection and Prevention: Early detection and prevention strategies are crucial to reduce the impact of NCDs. However, there is a need for increased awareness and early screening programs.
• Healthcare Infrastructure: While there are specialized institutions like the Indian Institute of Diabetes, there’s a need for strengthening healthcare infrastructure to address the growing burden of NCDs.
• Policy and Programmatic Interventions: Effective policy interventions and programs are required to promote healthy lifestyles, control risk factors, and improve access to quality healthcare services.
• Global Collaborations for NCD Prevention: Explore opportunities for international cooperation in combating NCDs. This includes sharing best practices, fostering cross-border partnerships, and conducting joint research to enhance global health outcomes.
• Engaging Youth in NCD Prevention: Stress the importance of engaging young people in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing NCDs. Empowering youth through education and advocacy can drive long-term improvements in public health.
• Traditional Medicine and NCD Management: Examine the potential role of traditional medicine in the prevention and management of NCDs, while emphasizing the importance of integrating evidence-based practices to ensure efficacy and safety.
• Data and Research: The importance of robust data collection and rigorous research in shaping evidence-based policies and interventions. Reliable data is essential for informed decision-making and the effective management of NCDs.
Call to Action (CTA):
• Individual Level: Encourage individuals to adopt healthy lifestyle choices, such as regular exercise, balanced diet, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption.
• Community Level: Promote community-based initiatives to create supportive environments for healthy living.
• Policymakers: Urge policymakers to prioritize NCD prevention and control in national health plans and budgets.
• Healthcare Providers: Call for increased training and capacity building for healthcare providers to address NCDs effectively.
• Researchers: Encourage further research to identify innovative solutions and improve the understanding of NCDs.
Additional Bullet Points NCDs in Kerala:
• The Role of Diet and Nutrition: The impact of unhealthy dietary patterns, such as excessive consumption of processed foods and sugary drinks, on NCD risk.
• Physical Activity and Sedentary Lifestyle: The importance of regular physical activity and the negative consequences of sedentary behaviours.
• The Burden on Healthcare Systems: The NCDs strain healthcare resources leading to increased costs and reduced access to care for other health conditions.
• The Role of Social Determinants of Health: The social, economic, and environmental factors that contribute to NCD disparities, such as poverty, education, and housing.
• The Importance of Early Diagnosis and Treatment: The benefits of early detection and timely intervention in improving outcomes and reducing mortality rates.
• The Role of Telemedicine: The potential of telemedicine in improving access to healthcare services, especially in rural and remote areas.
• The Impact of COVID-19 on NCD Care: The challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic on NCD prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
• The Role of Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs): The contributions of NGOs in raising awareness, providing support services, and advocating for NCD policies.
• The Importance of Mental Health: The link between mental health disorders and NCDs, and the need for integrated mental health care.
• The Role of Workplace Wellness Programs: Explore the potential of workplace wellness programs in promoting healthy lifestyles and reducing NCD risk factors.