Collaborative Efforts to Curb Rising NCDs: PVCHR, Jan Mitra Nyas, and Now IMA Join Hands for a Healthier Future

The alarming rise of non-communicable diseases (NCDs)—especially heart disease—among young people in India has emerged as a serious public health concern. A recent report from the Heart India Conclave held in Varanasi highlights growing cases of hypertension, heart attacks, and sudden cardiac arrest among youth, signaling an urgent need for coordinated action.

For many years, PVCHR (People’s Vigilance Committee on Human Rights) and Jan Mitra Nyas have been working at the grassroots level to address the long-term social and health consequences of poverty, stress, malnutrition, gender-based discrimination, and post-COVID vulnerabilities that contribute to NCDs. Today, it is encouraging to see the Indian Medical Association (IMA) also stepping forward to intensify efforts toward NCD prevention and awareness.

NCDs After COVID: A Silent Crisis

Post-COVID studies across India have shown a disturbing trend:

• Increased cases of heart attacks among youth

• Rising incidence of hypertension and diabetes

• Higher levels of stress, anxiety, and lifestyle-related disorders

• Lack of awareness about timely screening and preventive care

The Heart India Conclave 2025, with participation from over 100 cardiologists across India, expressed deep concern over the heightened rate of cardiac events in young populations. Experts emphasized that ignoring early signs or skipping basic tests before intense physical activity may lead to tragic outcomes.

PVCHR & Jan Mitra Nyas: Long-standing Commitment to Community Health

Long before these issues gained national attention, PVCHR and Jan Mitra Nyas have been working on:

• Health rights awareness in marginalized communities

Empowering families to understand symptoms, nutrition, and preventive strategies.

• Post-COVID health monitoring

Supporting vulnerable households dealing with long COVID, stress, and economic hardships—factors directly linked to NCD risks.

• Advocacy for accessible primary healthcare

Ensuring communities receive timely checkups, medicines, and referrals.

• Promotion of balanced diets and healthy living

Especially among women, children, and labour-intensive workers.

• Psychosocial support

Reducing stress—a major contributor to hypertension and cardiac issues—through counseling and community engagement.

Encouraging Step: IMA’s Involvement in Curbing NCDs

The Indian Medical Association’s renewed focus on youth heart health, as seen during the Heart India Conclave, is an important development. Doctors highlighted:

• Mandatory ECG, treadmill tests, and basic screenings before gym, sports, or heavy physical exertion

• Regular blood pressure checks for young people

• Lifestyle modifications—healthy diet, exercise, stress reduction

• Early diagnosis as the most effective tool against NCDs

Their proactive involvement strengthens the collective fight against the growing NCD burden.

A Call for United Action

The convergence of efforts from civil society (PVCHR & Jan Mitra Nyas) and medical professionals (IMA) creates a powerful model for community health transformation.

By combining grassroots mobilization, medical expertise, and public awareness, India can:

• Prevent early deaths

• Reduce long-term disability

• Improve quality of life

• Build stronger, healthier communities

NCDs are preventable—but only if communities are informed, systems are responsive, and institutions work together.

Moving Forward Together

PVCHR and Jan Mitra Nyas will continue strengthening their community-based health initiatives, while welcoming IMA’s commitment to this cause. Together, these collaborations will play a crucial role in curbing the rising tide of NCDs and ensuring a healthier future for India’s youth.