Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Jul 20: Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Science and Technology Dr Jitendra Singh has called for a nationwide public movement to tackle cancer, diabetes, obesity and other non-communicable diseases, stressing that India's healthcare strategy must prioritise prevention, early diagnosis and scientific awareness alongside medical treatment.
Speaking at the launch of "UNBROKEN: My Battle with Cancer and the Will to Lead", a book written by cancer survivor and former Department of Science and Technology Senior Adviser Dr Akhilesh Gupta, the minister said the country must transform its fight against lifestyle-related illnesses into a people's movement.
Dr Singh said the rising prevalence of cancer, diabetes, obesity and other metabolic disorders demands a shift from a hospital-centric approach to one focused on preventive healthcare, timely screening and evidence-based medical practices.
He noted that India's healthcare challenge extends beyond the growing number of patients, pointing to the increasing spread of health misinformation, which often prevents people from seeking appropriate treatment.
Emphasising the importance of scientific communication, the minister said reliable, evidence-based medical guidance is essential for improving public health and achieving the vision of a developed India under Viksit Bharat.
According to Dr Singh, diseases such as cancer, diabetes, obesity and fatty liver disease are emerging as major public health concerns and are increasingly affecting younger sections of the population.
He highlighted that many forms of cancer can now be effectively treated or managed if detected at an early stage, making regular screening and prompt medical intervention critical to improving survival outcomes.
Expressing concern over sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits, the minister urged people to embrace preventive healthcare as a way of life rather than treating it as an individual choice or a response to illness.
He stressed that balanced nutrition, regular physical exercise and routine health check-ups should become part of every citizen's daily routine if India is to successfully reduce the burden of lifestyle-related diseases and improve overall public health.