STAR NCD initiative launched in Gomati to strengthen Non-Communicable disease care

By  Firstdespatch Desk   Sep 13, 2024

Agartala, Sept 13 (FD) In a boost to healthcare in Gomati district, Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha inaugurated the first phase of the Strengthening Ambulatory Care for Non-Communicable Diseases (STAR NCD) program at Gomati District Hospital. This three-year initiative aims to enhance the capabilities of health workers in diagnosing and treating non-communicable diseases (NCDs), a leading cause of death in the country.

At a press conference held today at the Agartala Press Club, Professor Nikhil Tandon from AIIMS, New Delhi, detailed the program's objectives. STAR NCD is part of the National Health Research Priority Programme, spearheaded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). The initiative will be executed in collaboration with the Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC), Agartala Government Medical College, the state Health and Family Welfare Department, and the National Health Mission (NHM).

The program will also be rolled out in Faridabad (Haryana), Nagpur (Maharashtra), and Chittur (Andhra Pradesh). Prof. Tandon highlighted the rising prevalence of NCDs, noting that two-thirds of deaths are now attributed to these conditions. To address this, the program will focus on early detection and comprehensive training for healthcare professionals.

During his visit, Prof. Tandon reviewed the state of local government hospitals and expressed approval of the facilities. He advised the public to remain vigilant about their health. A state-level committee, led by Dr. Sanjoy Rudrapaul and comprising key health experts, has been established to oversee the implementation of the STAR NCD program. FD SB