Title: India Unites to Tackle Rising Burden of Non-Communicable Diseases through National Workshop
New Delhi (January 10, 2025): The Union Health Ministry in collaboration with the Government of Telangana successfully hosted a two-day national workshop on non-communicable diseases (NCDs), bringing together key stakeholders from across the country to strengthen strategies for prevention, screening, management, and treatment.
The workshop, held on January 8-9, 2025, aimed to enhance inter-sectoral collaboration, research, and innovative practices to address the growing burden of NCDs. Smt. Punya Salila Srivastava, Union Health Secretary, emphasized the need for a holistic approach to achieve the government's vision of a "Healthy India," with universal access to quality healthcare services and reduction of premature mortality from NCDs.
The event featured comprehensive discussions, field visits, and knowledge-sharing sessions on various aspects of major NCDs, including diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease, acute respiratory disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, stroke, and cancer. Participants observed best practices in NCD management at the grassroots level and discussed strategies for community-based interventions through initiatives such as Fit India and Eat Right India.
State-specific practices received particular attention, with exhibits showcasing innovative approaches to combat high blood pressure (Assam's hypertension control program), comprehensive screenings (Tamil Nadu), and robust cancer care infrastructure (Andhra Pradesh). The workshop also highlighted the importance of tailored strategies that address regional challenges, offering replicable models for other states.
The event featured presentations from eminent experts on research priorities, highlighting the need for implementation research to bridge gaps in prevention, screening, and treatment. Sessions focused on strengthening cancer care infrastructure and exploring strategies to address gaps in NCD care, including screening to follow-up phases, contributed by leading experts in oral, breast, and cervical cancer.
The conference will help strategize priorities of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare while submitting proposals for strengthening healthcare systems, including prevention and control of NCDs. The outcomes of this national workshop will be a significant step toward achieving the government's vision of a "Healthy India," with a focus on universal access to quality healthcare services.