As per the WHO, non-communicable diseases are responsible for 61% of all deaths in India. Experts share prevention tips and management strategies to tackle NCDs
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) pose a significant threat to mankind, accounting for 70% of worldwide deaths every year but they are largely preventable and often linked to changeable lifestyle factors such as diet, physical activity and the use of various substances. Thus, prioritising prevention should be a primary goal of public health policies, as it is more cost-effective than treating NCDs.
She suggested, “Governments can create regulations and policies that promote healthy behaviours and improve healthcare access. Civil society can help increase awareness and educate the public on healthy lifestyles. Parallel to government initiatives, the private sector can also play a remarkable role in promoting healthy products and services. Individually, making informed decisions and adopting healthy habits can contribute a lot to disease prevention. Reducing the burden of NCDs demands concerted efforts from all parties involved and implementing prevention and management strategies to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities.”
Bringing his expertise to the same, Dr Ashok Rattan highlighted that preventing and managing non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India requires a multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of these diseases, including unhealthy lifestyles and environmental factors. As per him, some key strategies that can be used to prevent and manage NCDs in India include:
1. Promoting healthy lifestyles: Public health campaigns that promote healthy lifestyles, including regular physical activity, healthy diets, and avoiding tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, can be effective in preventing NCDs.
2. Improving access to healthcare: Improving access to quality healthcare, including affordable medications and essential medical services, can help manage and treat NCDs effectively. This is particularly important in rural areas and for low-income populations.
3. Strengthening healthcare systems: Strengthening healthcare systems to manage better and treat NCDs, including through better training of healthcare workers and improved access to diagnostic tools and treatment options, can help improve outcomes for patients with NCDs.
4. Implementing policies and regulations: Policies and regulations that limit exposure to risk factors for NCDs, including tobacco and alcohol use, can be effective in preventing these diseases. This can include increasing taxes on tobacco and alcohol products, as well as regulating advertising and marketing of these products.
5. Engaging communities: Engaging communities in the prevention and management of NCDs can be effective in raising awareness and promoting healthy behaviors. This can include working with local community leaders and organizations to promote healthy lifestyles and improve access to healthcare.
Disclaimer: This Article is auto-generated from the HT news service