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NATIONAL PROGRAMME FOR PREVENTION AND CONTROL OF NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASES

6th May, 2023 POLITY AND GOVERNANCE

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Context: The Union government has decided to expand and rebrand its programme for tackling non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in response to the emergence of many new diseases or disease groups and new health initiatives.

Details

  • The programme, which was previously known as the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS), now covers 12 NCDs and 10 health initiatives, including mental health, oral health, palliative care, geriatric care, trauma care, and emergency medical services.
  • The new name of the programme is Comprehensive Primary Health Care through Health and Wellness Centres (CPHC-HWC).

National Programme for Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS)

  • It is a flagship initiative of the Government of India to address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in the country.
    • NCDs are estimated to account for around 60% of all deaths in India and cause considerable loss in potentially productive years of life.
  • It was launched in 2010 to strengthen infrastructure, human resource development, health promotion, early diagnosis, management and referral of common NCDs such as cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
  • The programme covers both urban and rural areas and provides free diagnostic facilities and drugs for patients attending the NCD clinics at district and community health centres.

National Programme for Prevention & Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD)

  • NPCDCS was launched in 2010, and will now be called the National Programme for Prevention & Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD).
  • The new name reflects the shift in focus from only controlling the four major non-communicable diseases (NCDs) to preventing them as well.
  • According to the MoHFW, the NP-NCD will aim to reduce the burden of NCDs by promoting healthy lifestyles, early detection and timely treatment.
  • The programme will also integrate with other health initiatives such as Ayushman Bharat and National Health Mission.
  • The programme will also strengthen the health system by enhancing human resources, infrastructure, equipment and drugs.
  • The NP-NCD will also leverage digital technologies such as telemedicine and m-health to improve access and quality of NCD care.

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Non-Communicable Diseases: https://www.iasgyan.in/daily-current-affairs/non-communicable-diseases

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major public health challenge in the 21st century, affecting people of all ages, genders, and regions. How to address the increasing burden of NCDs sustainably and equitably? What are the gaps and challenges in NCD research, surveillance, and monitoring, and how can we overcome them through innovation and collaboration?

https://epaper.thehindu.com/ccidist-ws/th/th_delhi/issues/35174/OPS/GMRB6PVI1.1+GLCB6QO8P.1.html