0
0
Dr. Devi Shetty, a distinguished cardiologist and the Founder and Chairman of Narayana Health, emphasized the imperative shift towards a “prevention-first” approach in healthcare, particularly as cases of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) surge, ahead of World Health Day marked on April 7.
With the theme “My health, my right” for this year’s World Health Day, the focus is on ensuring the accessibility of quality health services for everyone, everywhere. Dr. Shetty stressed the urgency for both the healthcare industry and individuals to prioritize preventive measures in combating the escalating burden of NCDs, especially among the youth in India.
“Hospitals are designed so badly that a person who’s not a patient wouldn’t like to go to that building. So, we need to create a kind of a different approach outside the hospital,” Dr. Shetty remarked in an interview with IANS.
He called for a paradigm shift within the healthcare industry, urging for a greater emphasis on preventive healthcare measures, proactive health management, and empowering individuals towards a healthier lifestyle.
“Today, as we mark World Health Day, we confront a stark reality: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) claim a staggering 65 per cent of lives in India, with diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular issues, and cancers at the forefront. What’s more alarming is the rise of these ailments among our youth, often due to a lack of early screening and awareness,” Dr. Shetty lamented.
Highlighting the urgency of a “prevention-first” mindset, Dr. Shetty underscored the importance of early screening and awareness in combating the prevalence of NCDs. He urged the healthcare industry to shift its focus towards preventive measures rather than solely providing care.
“Prevention should not be just a choice but a necessity for a healthy life. Maintaining and nurturing our bodies should not stem from fear, but from a commitment to daily care. Investing in preventive healthcare measures isn’t just a choice, it’s a necessity that will drastically reduce our future disease burdens,” Dr. Shetty emphasized.
As the world observes World Health Day, Dr. Shetty’s advocacy for a “prevention-first” approach resonates as a call to action for both healthcare professionals and individuals to prioritize preventive measures in safeguarding public health and fostering a healthier society.
