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Lucknow, December 6, 2024: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday highlighted cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and diabetes as significant contributors to the health challenges faced by the military. Speaking at the inaugural address of the 2024 Fellowship Convocation of the Cardiological Society of India (CSI) in Lucknow, Singh noted that these conditions were particularly concerning given India’s position as the “world capital” for both diabetes and chronic heart diseases, with a population of 1.42 billion.
Singh emphasized the importance of reviewing the health of soldiers regularly, particularly as they are often exposed to extreme conditions. “The prime area of concern is the health of our forces, which needs to be reviewed from time to time. Cardiovascular diseases and diabetes are seen as major contributors,” Singh said. He also reiterated the government’s commitment to tackling these health challenges through increased funding and healthcare support for the armed forces.
The Defence Minister’s speech underscored the rising prevalence of CVDs globally, particularly in India, where the diseases are the leading cause of mortality. Nearly three crore patients in the country suffer from coronary artery disease. Singh further pointed out that CVDs in India are occurring nearly a decade earlier than in Western populations, with urban areas being especially affected due to lifestyle changes and high stress levels.
Singh also called attention to the unique health challenges facing India. “We have the strange distinction of being not only the diabetes capital of the world but also the chronic heart disease capital of the world,” he remarked. Addressing the shortage of healthcare professionals, especially cardiologists, with just one cardiologist per one lakh population, Singh stressed the need for greater focus on preventive cardiology and expanding access to care, particularly in rural areas.
In his address, Singh emphasized the importance of preventive measures, such as lifestyle changes, early detection, and public awareness campaigns, to combat the growing health crisis. He also highlighted the government’s initiatives aimed at addressing CVDs and related health issues, such as the Ayushman Bharat scheme and the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases, and Stroke.
Singh acknowledged the critical role of the CSI and medical professionals in shaping healthcare policies and providing input to enhance public welfare. The event, marking the first CSI conference held in Lucknow, concluded with Singh expressing his appreciation for the efforts of the organizing committee in making the event a success.
This gathering of cardiology experts and professionals signaled a significant step in advancing the fight against cardiovascular diseases and improving the overall health of India’s population.
