Experts emphasis Lifestyle Change, Public Awareness as Tripura Launches STAR-NCD initiative
Like other parts of country, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are becoming a major concern in Tripura. Modern age life style and lack of physical exercises are two of major reasons behind the spike in NCD.
To combat the emerging medical situation, ICMR has selected for sites including the Gomati District of Tripura to implement the "Strengthening Ambulatory Care for NCDs" (STAR-NCD) project under their National Health Research Priority program.
The STAR-NCD project is designed to support and strengthen the efforts of the State government to provide quality care to the people of in Tripura under the NP-NCD, said Prof Nikhil Tandon who is one of the experts visiting Tripura regarding the implementation of the project.
Addressing a press conference in Agartala on Friday, Prof Tandon explained different aspects of the projects which aims to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and address the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) for screening and treatment.
Prof Tandon said, the initiative aims to enhance early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of NCDs like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer.
Notably the Government of Tripura launched the ICMR funded STAR-NCD program in Gomati District on Thursday.
Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha, officially launched the STAR-NCD program in the state which is supported by AIIMS, New Delhi, and the Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC)
Prof Tandon of the AIIMS, said approximately 62% of deaths are attributed to NCDs in India. Referring to an ICMR Sponsored study he said Tripura has the highest level of diabetes among the Northeast states excluding Sikkim.
He said, the program aims to enhance the quality and accessibility of healthcare services, focusing on early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of NCDs.
While explaining the STAR-NCD intiative, its implementation and other related issues in combating the NCDs, Prof Tandon strongly batted for public awareness and people's co-operation in controlling the NCD. He also pitched for a change in modern life style.
Apart from Prof. Nikhil Tandon, Dr. Prabhakaran from CCDC, Dr. Ashu Grover and Dr. Rupa Shiv Shankar from ICMR, Samit Roy Chowdhury, MD of NHM, Tripura and Dr. Mrinal Das from IGM Hospital were present in the press meet today. Sharing the details of STAR-NCD, they emphasized the need for public participation in attaining success in the battle against the NCDs.
While the STAR-NCD program strengthens the state’s healthcare system, the battle against NCDs cannot be won without public support, Prof Tandon said.
One of the key strategies of the STAR-NCD program is to enhance ambulatory care services, ensuring that patients receive timely and effective treatment. This includes establishing dedicated NCD clinics in district hospitals and strengthening referral systems for specialized care. Tripura already boasts 45 such clinics, and additional steps are being taken to further improve healthcare infrastructure across the state.
Highlighting importance of the bringing a paradigm shift in life style, Dr Tandon and Dr Prabhakaran suggested to consume low fat and low carbohydrate but rich in fibre food, strictly avoid tobacco and alcohol.
They also emphasized physical activities and awareness about consulting doctor at the onset of symptoms to beat the NCDs and stay healthy.
Screening, treatment and monitoring are the three crucial factors in dealing with NCDs, experts opined.
Prof. D. Prabhakaran added, "NCDs are a major challenge to public health, and we are excited to work closely with the state of Tripura to bring evidence-based solutions that address the unique healthcare needs of the region. The STAR-NCD project will empower health systems with tools and data to improve patient outcomes."
Notably, A committee under the State Health secretary has been formed at the state level to efficiently implement the STAR-NCD project.
(Tripura, Tripura News)
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