New Delhi — The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched the Intensified Special NCD Screening Campaign aimed at tackling the growing burden of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) across India. This nationwide screening drive, which will run from February 20 to March 31, is focused on promoting early detection of conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and certain cancers among adults aged 30 years and above.
The campaign is built on the foundation of the government’s commitment to enhancing preventive healthcare measures. According to the Health Ministry, the goal is to achieve 100 percent screening for prevalent NCDs, including diabetes, hypertension, as well as the three common forms of cancer — oral, breast, and cervical. This initiative is seen as part of the Ayushman Bharat initiative, which aims to provide universal access to quality health services.
"The Government of India is steadfast in its commitment to strengthening preventive healthcare and ensuring universal access to quality health services under the Ayushman Bharat initiative," stated the Ministry, emphasizing the significance of this screening campaign. They added, "This special drive marks a significant step toward a healthier and NCD-free India, empowering citizens to take charge of their health and well-being."
To maximize outreach, trained healthcare workers, including Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAS), Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs), and other frontline personnel, will conduct door-to-door visits. This community-focused approach intends to meet individuals where they live, ensuring accessibility for those who may not normally seek medical advice.
The campaign's importance is underscored by concerning statistics from the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), which reveal NCDs account for over 66 percent of all mortality rates across the nation. Such figures highlight the increasing prevalence of diseases like cardiovascular ailments, diabetes, chronic respiratory conditions, and certain cancers, especially among older individuals.
By facilitating early screenings, the initiative aims to provide timely interventions for those diagnosed with NCDs, potentially reducing severe complications. The Ministry projects these efforts may not only improve health outcomes but also lead to significant cost savings on healthcare, enhancing the quality of life for many citizens.
To promote transparency and accountability throughout the campaign, the Ministry plans to upload daily updates related to screening, treatment, and follow-ups on the NP-NCD Portal. It has issued directives to all States and Union Territories to secure the availability of necessary medical supplies at local healthcare facilities, including blood pressure monitors, glucometers, and medications.
The urgency of this campaign echoes the strides being made within public health initiatives nationwide, as the government rallies to address the serious and growing challenges posed by NCDs. Stakeholders from various sectors are expected to monitor and report daily updates, with states required to submit their progress by 6 PM each day.
Through this intensive screening drive, the Indian government hopes to not only address the immediate health issues facing its population but also to cultivate healthier habits and greater awareness about the risks associated with NCDs. This comprehensive approach to health could very well pave the way for encouraging lifestyle changes necessary for the prevention and management of these pervasive diseases.
The success of the campaign will rest on the collective effort of healthcare providers, communities, and government authorities working together to combat the alarming rise of NCDs and achieve greater health equity across the nation.