Last updated on June 12th, 2024 at 08:23 am
The Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC) achieved a significant milestone in its fight against cardiovascular disease (CVD) by screening over 1.1 million people for high blood pressure (BP) during the May Measurement Month (MMM) initiative.
Nationwide Effort for Heart Health
As the official Indian partner for MMM, a global campaign promoting regular BP checks, CCDC played a vital role in raising awareness and encouraging preventive measures. This year alone, the initiative screened over 6 million individuals across 100 participating countries. In India, where nearly 63% of deaths stem from non-communicable diseases, with CVD being a leading cause (27%), CCDC’s efforts hold immense importance. Through MMM and ongoing initiatives, they empower the public to manage and prevent this chronic condition.
Collaborative Approach for Public Education
On World Hypertension Day (May 17th), CCDC partnered with IAPEN India to organize health camps and educational sessions across various cities. These activities reached citizens in National Capital Region (NCR), Maharashtra, Punjab, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, and Odisha. The health camps not only focused on BP monitoring but also raised awareness about the risks of hypertension and the importance of healthy lifestyle choices for managing it.
Over 470 Volunteers Contribute to Success
The success of this initiative hinged on the dedication of over 471 volunteers from medical colleges, hospitals, and various institutions across India. Their efforts were instrumental in reaching a large population and delivering crucial information.
CCDC: Championing Heart Health
“Effective BP management is critical to preventing heart attacks and strokes,” stated Prof. D. Prabhakaran, Executive Director of CCDC. He highlighted CCDC’s accomplishment of conducting over 1.1 million screenings in seven years of participating in MMM. “By reaching a nationwide audience, we are committed to promoting heart health and reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease in our communities,” he added.
Global Fight Against Hypertension
MMM, a program initiated by the International Society of Hypertension, emphasizes the importance of regular BP checks for adults over 18. It not only encourages awareness but also provides resources for those diagnosed with high BP, including dietary and lifestyle recommendations, and promotes better follow-up care. By analyzing data on untreated hypertension, MMM advocates for improved BP screening facilities worldwide, aiming to lessen the global burden of morbidity and mortality caused by elevated BP.
About CCDC
The Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC) spearheads efforts to transform public health and empower professionals in combating the growing challenge of chronic diseases in India and low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Established in 2000 as a non-profit scientific organization based in Delhi, CCDC collaborates with the Government of India to reduce the impact of chronic diseases on the nation’s health.