NCDs are silent epidemics, says WHO expert

She outlined the magnitude of the problem of NCDs in the country, which is known to affect the productivity of most young people suffering from hypertension and diabetes.

Stating that communicable diseases are always visible and widely reported in the media, she said, “NCDs are silent epidemics. NCDs can only be controlled and not cured. While media focuses only on the investigations and the drugs aspect of NCDs, the aspect of prevention is ignored. The only key to prevention is multi-sectoral engagement.”

The MV Hospital for Diabetes and Prof M Viswanathan Diabetes Research Centre, a WHO collaborating centre for research, education and training in diabetes, had organised the 32nd edition of Prof M Viswanathan Gold Medal Oration Award 2017.

“Diabetes is a global public health issue and we cannot ignore its dominance across the world. The WHO had estimated the global prevalence of diabetes to 366 million by 2030,” said Dr Vijay Viswanathan, Head and Chief Diabetologist, M.V. Hospital for Diabetes, adding that methods must be developed all over the world to create awareness about the prevention of NCDs. They can be prevented by doing physical exercise, maintaining a balanced diet and avoiding mental stress, he added.