India can halve premature CVD deaths in 25 years: Doc

Lucknow: Mortality related to premature cardiovascular disease (CVD) decreased by 50% in one generation in several countries, a trend that India could replicate in the next 25 years. This was discussed by Prof D Prabhakaran, executive director of the Centre for Chronic Disease Control, at the 76th annual conference of the Cardiological Society of India.

During his Dr BC Roy oration, Prof Prabhakaran emphasised the importance of early detection and management of hypertension and diabetes, alongside evidence-based treatment protocols for CVD. He predicted that, with advancements in healthcare, heart attacks would increasingly affect older populations, reducing premature deaths.

He stated that these shifts will only occur if there are improvements in public health policies, including increased awareness, better management of hypertension and diabetes, healthier diets, more physical activity and stricter tobacco regulations.

He also called for innovative solutions such as electronic decision support systems and task-shifting strategies, particularly in rural areas for managing hypertension. Additionally, he pointed out the impact of environmental factors like air pollution and extreme weather, which exacerbate conditions such as hypertension, diabetes and lipid imbalances. To address these challenges, he stressed the need for capacity building among primary care physicians.

Lastly, Prof Prabhakaran advocated for large-scale health system reforms, including the integration of technologies like electronic health records and telemedicine to manage the growing burden of CVD and diabetes in India.