What is NPCDCS?

March 6, 2023

The Indian Government launched the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) in 2010 to prevent and control major non-communicable diseases. It focuses on strengthening infrastructure, human resource development, early diagnosis, health promotion and more. It seeks to reduce premature cancer-related mortality by 25% by 2025.

Why is NPCDCS in News?

In line with the NPCDCS, a 164-bed Super-Specialty Cancer and Research Centre are being set up in Mizoram. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Indian Government signed a loan agreement to provide Rs.560 crore credit for this project’s implementation. This facility will have cutting-edge medical equipment for cancer diagnosis to ensure efficient prevention and treatment.

Need for NPCDCS

Cancer, diabetes, stroke and cardiovascular diseases are generally referred to as non-communicable diseases. 60% of the deaths in India occur to non-communicable diseases. Non-communicable diseases cause premature deaths and therefore, reduce the overall productivity of the country.

There are 1.29 crores of persons affected by NCD. Of these 90,000 are suffering from cardiovascular diseases and 13,000 people are suffering from cancers. With NPCDS, more than 96 lakh individuals were screened for NCD and were referred to higher diagnosis centres.

Modified Strategy of NPCDCS

The scheme was launched in 2010. In 2017, a modified strategy was adopted for the scheme. It is now being implemented under this new strategy. Behavioural change is the focus of the new strategy. To achieve this, outreach camps are being organised. NCD clinics are built. Cost-effective treatment is provided. A robust surveillance system is implemented to monitor morbidity and mortality rates.

Recent Programmes initiated under NPCDCS

Population-based screening is being implemented for the early detection of NCDs. The scheme has been integrated with AYUSH. RNTCP has been integrated with NPCDCS.

TCCC Scheme for Cancer

Under the NPCDCS the Tertiary Care Cancer Centers scheme is being implemented. It aims to set up 20 Cancer Institutes. The GoI has allocated Rs 120 crores per cancer institute.

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