Janakpur: The Ministry of Health and Population in Madhes Province has revealed that a significant 71 percent of patients in Nepal are affected by non-communicable diseases. This information was shared during a public awareness event organized by the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control in Janakpur, which focused on ‘Enhancing Drinking Water to Mitigate Non-Communicable Diseases.’
According to National News Agency Nepal, Dr. Bipin Kumar Jha, Head of the Health Division of the Ministry, presented data showing a daily increase in the number of patients suffering from non-communicable diseases. These conditions are reported to be growing at a faster rate than communicable diseases. The major non-communicable diseases identified include heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions.
Dr. Jha emphasized that the main factors contributing to non-communicable diseases are the consumption of contaminated and unfit food items, polluted air and water, poor dietary habits, and a sedentary lifestyle. He urged that improvements in lifestyle and dietary practices are crucial for prevention. He also highlighted that this issue is increasingly affecting Madhes Province.
At the event, Umesh Yadav, Head of the Public Health Office in Dhanusha, stressed the importance of collaboration between government and non-government organizations to tackle health challenges. He also expressed concerns that budget cuts have impacted his office’s ability to provide quality services.
Dr. Rudra Narayan Thakur, Chief of Ayurveda Hospital in Dhanusha, noted that integrating Ayurvedic treatments with yoga and meditation can aid in managing and treating chronic diseases. He mentioned that Ayurveda is continuously improving its capacity to address complex health issues effectively.
Bimal Dahal, head of the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control in Janakpur, underscored the necessity of clean and quality food for a healthy life. He added that the office routinely monitors food hygiene, prevents the production and distribution of substandard food products, and tests these items in laboratories.
The programme, which included participation from women, social workers, and heads of various offices from different wards under Janakpurdham Sub-Metropolitan City, concluded under the chairmanship of Dahal, head of the Department of Food Technology and Quality Control.