India envisages to become a $5 trillion economy. But this ambition is threatened by a silent epidemic called non-communicable diseases (NCDs). NCDs account for 2/3rd of all deaths and pose a severe risk to public health plus economic productivity.
A non-communicable disease (NCD)is a disease that is not transmissible from one person to another directly.
They include conditions like heart disease, cancer, diabetes, stroke, chronic respiratory diseases and others such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s and osteoporosis.
Most NCDs are non-infectious but some may arise from non-transmissible infections.
The working-age population in our country is getting affected by heart disease, diabetes, cancer, stroke and chronic lung diseases increasingly. Around 22% of Indians who are over 30 years of age are at the risk of dying from NCDs before they turn 70 years of age.
The economic cost is severe. NCDs is costing India 5%-10% of its GDP. A World Economic Forum-Harvard study estimated losses of $3.5–$4 trillion between 2012–2030 due to reduced workforce participation and health expenditures.
NCDs are largely preventable. Addressing sedentary lifestyles, poor diets, tobacco, alcohol and pollution could prevent 80% of premature heart disease, stroke and diabetes. Public campaigns promoting daily exercise, balanced diets and weight control are essential.
Pollution drives COPD, lung cancer and cardiovascular issues. Urban planning and environmental regulations must integrate pollution control as part of healthcare.
Early detection through routine screenings starting from 40 years (or earlier with family history) can avert serious complications. Screening methods like mammograms, HPV tests and colonoscopy are crucial in identifying treatable conditions at early stages.
There are more than 750 million users of smartphone in our India. So, India has a vast potential for digital health outreach. Various Apps and wearables can track health metrics plus give lifestyle tips. They can also remind users about health check-ups.
AI algorithms are important tools that can predict risks, detect early signs of disease (via chest X-rays or CT scans) and personalize health plans as well. These new innovations make preventive care more proactive and precise. However, it must remain ethical and patient-centric.
Preventive care must become a collective mindset. Individuals should take ownership of their health through regular check-ups and lifestyle changes. Workplaces must support employee wellness programmes and schools should promote health education.
Various schemes like the National Programme for Prevention and Control of NCDs and Health and Wellness Centres are key steps towards preventive care. Further urban design, food regulation and education reforms should be taken up tp prioritize long-term health outcomes.
Preventive health is not just a medical strategy. It is an economic imperative plus a civic responsibility. Scaling healthy choices across 1.4 billion Indians can shape a resilient, prosperous and healthy India. Every check-up scheduled, every sugar cube avoided and every staircase taken brings us closer to a future where health and economic growth go hand in hand.
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MAINS QUESTION Q.In light of India’s rising burden of non-communicable diseases, examine the role of preventive healthcare in building a healthy and productive nation. 250 Words. |
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