Communicable Diseases

Global Scenario

Communicable diseases, ranging from tuberculosis (TB) to HIV/AIDS, malaria, and viral hepatitis, continue to exact a heavy toll on global health. In 2019 alone, these diseases claimed 13.7 million lives worldwide. TB remains a formidable challenge, with millions of new cases reported annually, while HIV/AIDS and hepatitis persist as significant threats. Emerging diseases like COVID-19, Zika, and Ebola further complicate the landscape, highlighting the ongoing battle against infectious diseases.

Indian Scenario

India confronts a multitude of communicable diseases, with TB, COVID-19, HIV/AIDS, and hepatitis at the forefront. TB alone accounted for 2.8 million cases in 2022, contributing significantly to the global burden. The impact of COVID-19 has been profound, underscoring the need for robust pandemic preparedness and response. Additionally, diseases such as malaria, dengue, and chikungunya pose persistent challenges, reflecting the complex public health landscape in India.

Actions in India

India has implemented various initiatives to combat communicable diseases, including strategic plans for TB elimination, national programs for HIV/AIDS control, and surveillance efforts for malaria and influenza. Mass drug administration campaigns and vaccination drives aim to eliminate diseases like lymphatic filariasis and prevent outbreaks. Enhanced disease surveillance systems and collaboration between public and private sectors are crucial components of India's response strategy.

Major Issues Considered

Challenges in India include urban overcrowding, inadequate sanitation, and limited access to clean water, all of which contribute to the spread of communicable diseases. Emerging threats such as antimicrobial resistance and zoonotic diseases further complicate the situation. TB, malaria, and COVID-19 management face hurdles related to testing coverage and treatment access, while HIV/AIDS control efforts grapple with stigma and engagement barriers. Vector-borne diseases remain prevalent, necessitating robust surveillance and control measures to mitigate their impact. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach encompassing improved surveillance, enhanced healthcare access, and concerted efforts to combat emerging threats.

Non-Communicable Diseases

Global Scenario

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) represent a significant burden on global health, accounting for 74% of total deaths annually. Leading NCDs include cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), cancers, chronic respiratory diseases, and diabetes. Despite advances in prevention and treatment, these diseases continue to claim millions of lives each year, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

Indian Scenario

In India, NCDs account for nearly two-thirds of total deaths, with CVDs, COPD, cancer, and diabetes being the primary contributors. The prevalence of conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity is substantial, with projections indicating further increases. However, control rates for these diseases remain low, and significant proportions of cases go undiagnosed, exacerbating the burden of NCDs.

Actions in India

India initiated comprehensive NCD programs aimed at prevention and control, with the National Program for Prevention and Control of NCDs (NP-NCD) launched in 2023. The program seeks to strengthen infrastructure, human resources, and health promotion efforts, with a target of reducing premature NCD deaths by 25% by 2025. Initiatives like the 75/25 program aim to support millions with hypertension and diabetes, highlighting the importance of early intervention and management.

Major Issues Considered

Key challenges in India include barriers to access, gaps in early detection and treatment, and operational challenges in implementing NCD programs. Vulnerable populations face disparities in healthcare access, hindering equitable management of NCDs. Inadequate integration between public and private sectors limits comprehensive tracking of NCD trends, while the high prevalence of modifiable risk factors underscores the urgent need for health promotion and early intervention efforts. Addressing these challenges demands integrated approaches encompassing enhanced awareness, improved access to care, and strengthened health systems to alleviate the burden of NCDs effectively.

One Health

Global Scenario

One Health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, is crucial for addressing emerging infectious diseases and antimicrobial resistance. Approximately 60% of known infectious diseases in humans originate from animals, highlighting the importance of a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach to health.

Indian Scenario

India faces diverse health threats, including antimicrobial resistance, zoonotic diseases, environmental hazards, and food safety issues. The lack of interdisciplinary collaboration exacerbates disease spread and contributes to challenges such as antimicrobial resistance.

Actions in India

India has taken steps towards One Health integration through regional collaborations and the establishment of specialized centers and initiatives. Efforts like the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance advocate for a One Health approach, emphasizing the need for collaboration across sectors to address health challenges comprehensively.

Major Issues Considered

Challenges in India include limited awareness of zoonotic diseases, inadequate data sharing, and gaps in animal healthcare services. Antibiotic resistance among animals poses a significant challenge, while multidisciplinary research efforts and training opportunities in One Health remain scarce. Resource scarcity and funding constraints further hinder effective pandemic preparedness and response systems, underscoring the need for holistic approaches to address health threats.

Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)

Global Scenario

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a grave threat to global health and development, with significant economic implications. Despite efforts like the Global Action Plan on AMR, implementation remains limited, highlighting the urgent need for enhanced strategies and funding to address this growing threat.

Indian Scenario

In India, AMR presents a significant challenge due to inappropriate antibiotic usage and limited implementation of national action plans. The emergence of multi-drug resistant organisms complicates diagnostics and treatment, exacerbating the impact of AMR on public health.

Actions in India

India has launched initiatives like the National Action Plan for Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR) to address AMR challenges. However, implementation remains limited, emphasizing the need for enhanced efforts to combat antimicrobial resistance comprehensively.

Major Issues Considered

Key challenges in India include misuse and overuse of antibiotics, inadequate regulations, and limited access to affordable antibiotics and diagnostics. Addressing AMR requires robust policies, improved surveillance, and strengthened infection control measures to mitigate its impact on public health and sustainable development.

" Challenges in India include limited awareness of zoonotic diseases, inadequate data sharing, and gaps in animal healthcare services. Antibiotic resistance among animals poses a significant challenge, while multidisciplinary research efforts and training opportunities in One Health remain scarce. "