Govt launches study to identify, prevent non-communicable diseases

Panaji: State govt on Tuesday launched a large-scale longitudinal cohort study in Goa to identify, prevent, and mitigate the risks of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
In the first year, at least 40,000 people will be covered under the study that will be conducted around community health centres and primary health centres. Govt has partnered with Oxford University and Tata Memorial to conduct studies.
Chief minister Pramod Sawant, who launched the study, said the rising burden of NCDs is one of the greatest healthcare challenges facing not just India but the world. “I am deeply committed to ensuring that every Goan receives the best healthcare services backed by data-driven policies and scientific research. I am certain this study will help us understand the health trends specific to Goa’s population and enable us to develop targeted healthcare interventions,” Sawant said. The cohort study was presented by Dr Shekhar Salkar.
He said the initiative will bring multiple benefits to Goa and serve as a model for public health research in India. “By studying the prevalence and determinants of NCDs, we can introduce preventive healthcare strategies to improve the overall well-being of our citizens. This study will generate evidence-based recommendations that will guide our state’s health policies and optimal resource allocation,” Sawant said.
By assessing dietary, environmental, and genetic factors unique to Goa’s population, the state can design tailored health initiatives that strategically address individual challenges of the public, the chief minister said. “Partnering with Oxford University and Tata Memorial Hospital strengthens our research credibility and opens doors for advanced medical studies in Goa. This study will enhance local research capabilities as well, creating a skilled workforce in epidemiology, public health, and medical research,” Sawant said.
State govt is fully committed to providing the necessary resources, expertise and infrastructure to ensure the success of this landmark cohort study, he said and added, “We will make special budgetary provisions to support this research without disruption. The study’s findings will directly influence Goa’s health policies, allowing us to take proactive measures against NCDs. We aim to make Goa a leader in public health research, contributing significantly to India’s healthcare advancements.”


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