Health Ministry to Launch Nationwide Screening Campaign for Hypertension, Diabetes, and Cancer

New Delhi: The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has announced a nationwide screening campaign targeting non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, and cancer. The initiative, set to run from February 20 to March 31, aims to enhance early detection and management of these chronic conditions.

Encouraging participation, the Health Ministry urged individuals over 30 to visit their nearest government healthcare facility for free screening. “Take charge of your health—join the nationwide screening drive from February 20th to March 31st and get screened for free,” MoHFW stated in a post on social media platform X.

The special screening will be conducted at all government health facilities, focusing on hypertension, diabetes, and cancers of the oral cavity, breast, and cervix. Alongside the announcement, the Ministry shared an infographic highlighting key diabetes symptoms, including blurred vision, increased appetite, slow-healing wounds, fatigue, constant thirst, sudden weight loss, and frequent urination. “Don’t ignore these signs of diabetes!” the Ministry cautioned.

The launch of this initiative comes amid growing concerns over the increasing prevalence of NCDs in India. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research-National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN), these diseases now account for 66% of all deaths in the country.

Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory conditions, and cancers have emerged as significant public health challenges, particularly among those over 30. Unlike developed nations, where NCDs often manifest later in life, India is witnessing a surge in cases at a much younger age. Alarmingly, two-thirds of Indians affected by NCDs fall within the 26-59 age bracket, a period considered the most economically productive.

Unhealthy dietary habits and lifestyle choices remain key contributors to this crisis. A recent ICMR-NIN study revealed that 56% of India’s NCD burden is linked to poor diet.

Recognizing the growing health threat, Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently underscored the importance of fitness and balanced nutrition. Speaking at the 38th National Games in Dehradun, he stressed the role of exercise and diet in maintaining overall well-being.

Highlighting the Fit India Movement, Modi advocated for mindful eating habits, including reducing oil consumption by 10%. “A healthy body leads to a healthy mind, which in turn contributes to a healthier nation,” he remarked.

With NCDs posing a mounting challenge, the Health Ministry’s latest screening drive is a step towards proactive disease prevention and improved public health.