Why in news?

In view of the preventable risk factors for non communicable diseases (NCDs), the State Health Department to start screening all those aged above 30 years for diabetes.

Highlights

• The screening will be done at the soon to be launched Namma Clinics
• The government’s aim is to conduct check-ups for the entire population in the next 18 months
• According to data from National Family Health Survey (NFHS­5), the prevalence of diabetes mellitus (DM) and hypertension (HTN) in Karnataka is 14.8% and 25.9%
• Under the National Programme for prevention and control of cancers, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and stroke (NPCDCS), 75% of the State’s population has been enrolled in the NCD app and 55% of the target population, have been screened for NCDs in the last three years.
• In terms of prevalence of the three most common cancers, while 48.9% and 24% of the population has been screened for oral cancer and breast cancer respectively, 0.01% has been diagnosed with both these cancers.

How namma clinics will help to keep in check?

• 438 namma clinics in urban areas established to manage and check the increase of non-communicable diseases.
• A database of people with and at risk of NCDs will be created after conducting mass screenings at Namma clinics.

What are Namma clinics ?

• The programme has been focused to address the healthcare needs of urban poor, especially people falling below the poverty line and those living in huts.
• Each ward of the city will consist of at least one Namma Clinic and will operate like PHCs of rural areas
• The clinics are being established in government and rented buildings, which have an area of 1,000-1,200 Sq.ft.
• It will also create awareness about Yoga, Pranayama, Dhyana and food habits
• Apparently taking a cue from Delhi government’s Mohalla Clinic, the health department aims to set up ‘Namma Clinic’ in each ward of Bengaluru
• Each clinic will consist of a doctor, a nurse, a lab technician and a group D employee