Meeting Overview:
Prof. (Dr.) Atul Goel, Director-General of Health Services (DGHS), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, chaired a hybrid meeting with representatives from over 27 major Indian health bodies.
The meeting focused on advancing key health initiatives, including the promotion of healthy diets, physical activity, and addressing risk factors for non-communicable diseases such as tobacco and alcohol.
Focus on Health Promotion and Prevention:
Dr. Goel emphasized the importance of redirecting healthcare resources towards disease prevention, rather than solely focusing on diagnostic and therapeutic measures.
The Healthy Medical/Dental College Campus Initiative was discussed, aiming to promote a culture of health and well-being in medical and dental institutions across India.
Tobacco and Alcohol Control:
Participants discussed strategies to reduce tobacco and alcohol use, including the strengthening of the Prohibition of Electronic Cigarettes Act 2019.
The significance of implementing dietary and lifestyle changes to curb non-communicable diseases was highlighted, with a focus on public awareness and educational campaigns.
Declaration of Health Promotion:
All professional bodies present agreed to adopt a Declaration of Health Promotion and pledged to take active measures to support and promote health initiatives.
The participants stressed the importance of a collaborative approach, working closely with the Union Health Ministry to achieve health promotion goals.
Participants and Commitments:
The meeting included Dr. L. Swasticharan, Additional DDG & Director EMR, along with senior officials from the Union Health Ministry.
Health professional bodies such as the National Medical Commission (NMC), World Health Organization (WHO), Indian Medical Association (IMA), and others participated.
The collective commitment was made to enhance public health through education, awareness, and policy advocacy, focusing on reducing tobacco use, alcohol abuse, and other health risk factors.
Outcomes and Future Steps:
The meeting reaffirmed the Ministry's dedication to improving public health and well-being through proactive and collaborative measures.
The health bodies pledged to work together with the Ministry to further health promotion initiatives, ensuring a healthier future for the nation.
(Rehash/Pratiksha Jadhav/MSM)
