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In a poignant address at the first convocation of postgraduate courses of the Government Medical College and Hospital, former President Ram Nath Kovind sounded the alarm on the burgeoning epidemic of lifestyle diseases in India. Highlighting the gravity of the situation, Kovind underscored the need for doctors to champion the cause of healthy living to mitigate the burden of these ailments.
“Our country is also facing the epidemic of lifestyle diseases – diabetes, hypertension, coronary artery diseases, and lipid disorders are on a rapid rise,” Kovind lamented. With more than 10 crore Indians afflicted by diabetes alone, India has been saddled with the unenviable title of being the diabetes capital of the world.
Kovind emphasized that these lifestyle diseases not only deteriorate the quality of life but also exact a hefty financial toll. Therefore, he stressed the imperative of promoting the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, urging doctors to utilize their influence to encourage patients to embrace practices like balanced diet, regular exercise, and yoga.
“Your words, as doctors, I believe would certainly carry great weight with your patients,” Kovind affirmed, highlighting the pivotal role of healthcare professionals in fostering behavioral change towards healthier habits.
While lauding India’s progress in providing world-class healthcare, Kovind acknowledged the persistent regional, rural, urban, and gender disparities in healthcare accessibility. He called for urgent measures to address the severe shortage of doctors in rural and semi-urban areas, suggesting incentives or specialized training for serving in underserved regions.
“Without adequately correcting this discrepancy, we cannot rest,” Kovind asserted, underlining the imperative of equitable healthcare distribution across the nation.
In his address, Kovind also stressed the importance of upholding the highest ethical standards and professionalism in medical practice. He emphasized the significance of compassion alongside clinical acumen, stating, “Doctors need a sharp mind, but more than that, they need compassion—a warm, compassionate heart.”
Kovind’s impassioned plea resonates with the pressing need for concerted efforts to combat the escalating challenge of lifestyle diseases in India. As the nation grapples with the dual burdens of disease and healthcare inequities, the collective action of healthcare professionals assumes paramount importance in steering the populace towards healthier, more fulfilling lives.
