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In an effort to strengthen healthcare infrastructure and tackle the growing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), the Government of Tripura launched the STAR-NCD program in Gomati District on Thursday. This initiative, funded by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), is aimed at improving the early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of NCDs such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, hypertension, and cancer.
At a press meeting in Agartala on Friday, Prof. Nikhil Tandon of AIIMS highlighted the gravity of NCDs in India, noting that 62% of deaths nationwide are linked to these conditions. He cited an ICMR-sponsored study which shows that Tripura has the highest incidence of diabetes in the Northeast, excluding Sikkim. Prof. Tandon stressed the importance of lifestyle changes in combating diabetes and other NCDs, calling for a focus on healthier habits to manage these diseases.
The STAR-NCD (Strengthening Ambulatory Care for Non-Communicable Diseases) program is a significant national initiative led by ICMR. The program aims to improve the accessibility and quality of healthcare services, with a focus on early diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of NCDs. The initiative was officially launched in the state by Chief Minister Prof. Dr. Manik Saha and is supported by AIIMS, New Delhi, and the Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC). The program primarily targets high-risk conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease.
In addition to Prof. Tandon, the press meeting saw the participation of several prominent healthcare professionals, including 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. They shared key details of the STAR-NCD program and emphasized the crucial role of public participation in ensuring its success.
Dr. Tandon and Dr. Prabhakaran highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in lifestyle to combat NCDs. They advocated for a diet low in fat and carbohydrates but rich in fiber, the avoidance of tobacco and alcohol, regular physical activity, and the importance of seeking medical advice at the first sign of symptoms. They emphasized that while the STAR-NCD program will strengthen Tripura’s healthcare system, public involvement is essential in the fight against NCDs.
A key component of the STAR-NCD program is the enhancement of ambulatory care services. This includes establishing dedicated NCD clinics in district hospitals and improving referral systems for specialized care. Tripura already has 45 such clinics, and efforts are underway to further improve healthcare infrastructure across the state.
Prof. Prabhakaran underscored the challenge that NCDs pose to public health, expressing excitement about collaborating with the state of Tripura to implement evidence-based solutions that address the region’s unique healthcare needs. He noted that the STAR-NCD project would empower health systems with the tools and data needed to improve patient outcomes.
To ensure the efficient implementation of the STAR-NCD project, a state-level committee has been formed. This committee, led by Dr. Sanjay Rudrapal, includes members such as Dr. Shubhankar Pal, Dr. Moutushi Deb, Tapas Saha, Saroop Roy, Jayanta Debnath, and Gautam Bhattacharjee. The committee will oversee the execution of the program and ensure that its objectives are met.
