Progress Update on NPCDCS Initiatives
In a significant move to combat Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), the Department of Health and Family Welfare has launched the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD), previously known as NPCDCS. This initiative aims to enhance healthcare infrastructure, develop human resources, and promote health awareness while ensuring early diagnosis and effective management of these diseases. The program is designed to provide comprehensive care through a network of healthcare facilities across the country.
Infrastructure Development Under NP-NCD
The NP-NCD program has established a robust infrastructure at both district and Community Health Centre levels. As of March 31, 2023, the program has set up various facilities aimed at improving the management of NCDs. The key facilities include State NCD Cells, District NCD Divisions, and District NCD Clinics. For instance, there are currently 36 State NCD Cells operational, with the same number projected for the next two years. The District NCD Divisions have increased from 708 to a projected 753 by March 2025, while District NCD Clinics are expected to grow from 724 to 770 within the same timeframe.
Additionally, specialized units such as Cardiac Care Units (CCUs) and District Day Care Centers are also being expanded. The number of CCUs is set to rise from 210 to 233, and Day Care Centers are projected to increase from 326 to 364 by March 2025. This expansion reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing healthcare services for the management of NCDs.
Screening and Treatment Initiatives
The NP-NCD program has also made significant strides in screening and treating common NCDs among the population aged 30 and above. According to data from the National NCD Portal, extensive screening efforts have been conducted, with nearly 39 million individuals screened for hypertension and diabetes. The program has diagnosed over 5 million cases of hypertension and approximately 3.5 million cases of diabetes.
Moreover, the initiative has successfully placed nearly 4.75 million individuals under treatment for hypertension and about 2.83 million for diabetes. The screening efforts extend to various cancers, including oral, breast, and cervical cancers, with millions screened and diagnosed. This comprehensive approach aims to ensure early detection and timely treatment, ultimately reducing the burden of NCDs in the country.
Community Engagement and Training
To facilitate effective implementation, the NP-NCD program relies heavily on trained frontline workers, including Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs). These workers play a crucial role in community engagement, providing screening services, and ensuring continuity of care through referrals to Community Health Centres and District Hospitals.
Training modules have been developed to equip health staff with the necessary skills for screening, management, and awareness generation regarding NCDs. This capacity-building effort is essential for sustaining the program’s long-term goals and improving health outcomes in communities across the nation.
Future Plans and Government Support
Looking ahead, the government has announced plans to establish Day Care Cancer Centres (DCCCs) in district hospitals over the next three years, with 200 centres slated for the financial year 2025-26. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance cancer care and treatment facilities in the country.
Additionally, under the “Strengthening of Tertiary Cancer Care Centres Facilities” scheme, financial assistance is being provided to State Cancer Institutes and Tertiary Cancer Care Centres. This funding aims to bolster advanced cancer care, diagnosis, and research capabilities, ensuring that these institutions can deliver high-quality healthcare services. The Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Shri Prataprao Jadhav, emphasized the government’s commitment to improving public health infrastructure and addressing the challenges posed by NCDs.
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