Successful Follow-Up Visit Marks Progress in Indian Hypertension Control Initiative - Mission Swasth Kavach

Ludhiana, March 8,2024: The Indian Hypertension Control Initiative, Mission Swasth Kavach, led by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and executed in collaboration with Dayanand Medical College & Hospital (DMCH), Ludhiana, and World Health Organisation (WHO), achieved a significant milestone with the success of its first follow-up visitation.

The celebration, attended by esteemed medical professionals, commenced with Dr. Bishav Mohan providing insights into the initiative’s progress. With over 7500 individuals screened in the industrial sector alone, the initiative has demonstrated commendable results, supported by DMCH’s provision of medications for hypertension and diabetes across the private sector.
Dr. Abhishek Khanna, NPO of Health Promotion & Social Determinants of Health, delivered a compelling talk on “75/25 strategies for patients with Hypertension & Diabetes,” shedding light on the collaborative approach between the Government of India and WHO in combating hypertension in the public sector.
Bipin Gupta, Secretary of DMC&H Managing Society, emphasized the commitment to prioritize community health, highlighting the collaborative effort’s impact on Ludhiana district and north India.
Dr. GS Wander led a constructive discussion outlining plans to expand the project’s reach. Hypertensive screenings will extend to educational institutions, beginning with workshops organized by DMCH Hospital to train volunteers for accurate blood pressure measurement.
Dr. Anurag Chaudhary highlighted the importance of education, screening, and collaborative efforts to mitigate hypertension’s impact. Over 56 training and awareness sessions have been conducted in industries, training over 150 members to date.
Dr. Sarju Ralhan, Chief Cardiac Surgeon, HDHI, stressed the multi-faceted approach required for addressing hypertension. Mission Swasth Kavach aims not only to save lives but also foster a culture of preventive healthcare.
Following a seminar, an industrial visit by WHO at Ganga Acrowools showcased data entry management and hypertension screening at the industrial level. SNS Pahwa hospital and Mohandai Oswal hospital were selected as cluster hospitals due to their strategic locations.
Data from the IHCI-ICMR project revealed over 40% newly diagnosed hypertensives, emphasizing the critical need for intervention. Positive results include an increase in hypertension control rates since inception.
 
Additional Information:
 
                •             7528 individuals screened; 78.2% newly diagnosed hypertensives.
                •             Medication provided to newly diagnosed patients, achieving over 15% blood pressure control within the first month.
                •             Posters, pamphlets, and awareness books distributed in various languages.
                •             Lifestyle modifications led to 58% control in borderline patients.
                •             More than 84% compliance with prescribed medicines during the first-month follow-up.
 
The success of Mission Swasth Kavach reflects the importance of early detection, timely intervention, and sustained support in effectively managing hypertension.