Don’t ignore the silent killers: Doctors urge medication, lifestyle changes for NCDs

While communicable diseases receive a considerable attention, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) continue to be a major yet overlooked health burden, leading to chronic disability and impacting the quality of life. Keeping this in view, the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD) is running throughout the country and targets major non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes, which contribute significantly to mortality in the country. “There is a lack of awareness about (NCDs), their prevention and management as most of them lack any symptoms at the initial stage. Coupled with insufficient knowledge about risk factors and the importance of healthy lifestyles, it contributes to a rise in NCD prevalence and mortality,” said Dr Amanpreet Kaur, District Family Welfare Officer.

Dr Kaur explained that the programme includes population-based screening, particularly for individuals aged 30 years and above, to detect and manage common NCDs. In Ludhiana district, 80,956 people were diagnosed with NCDs in the past year.

“Currently, we are focusing on diabetes and hypertension. In the future, we plan to include screening of cancer and liver diseases. Of the total 80,956 people diagnosed, 8,720 have managed to control their disease with the help of medication while 16,791 are on follow-up,” said Dr Amanpreet.

Emphasising the importance of disease management, Dr Kaur noted, “Follow-up after diagnosis is critical. Unfortunately, some people are hesitant to take medication for high blood pressure or diabetes, which is dangerous and can lead to serious complications. While a disciplined lifestyle with regular exercise and a healthy diet is essential, medication should not be avoided when required to keep the condition under control.”

The Ludhiana West block recorded the highest number of NCD diagnoses, with 17,207 cases out of 69,013 people screened. Of these, 1,705 have controlled the disease and 3,396 are on follow-up.

The Khanna block reported the highest number of people who have successfully controlled their condition — 2,313 out of 14,550 diagnosed, with 2,774 under follow-up care. A total of 23,534 individuals were screened for NCDs in Khanna.

Delhi