The Punjab Government has initiated ‘India Hypertension Management Initiative’ (IHMI) programme for detection and treatment of people suffering from hypertension.Disclosing this here today while presiding over the meeting of ‘India Hypertension Management Initiative’ (IHMI) programme with the team of international and National experts, Mr. Brahm Mohindra said that non communicable diseases were proving fatal for the human beings the world over. He said that it was matter of serious concern that even after uncountable advancements in the medical profession, most of affected people are not much aware about the causes of hypertension.Mr. Mohindra further said that this programme would prove helpful for proper treatment of hypertension which is also associated with heart and other non-communicable diseases. He said that under this programme field staff would ensure the reporting and follow up of patients enrolled for treatment in the health department.
The Health Minister also informed that the team expressed its satisfaction over the way the project was being implemented in five districts of the state.Dr. Tom Frieden, from USA, pointed out that the Punjab Project would set an example for the detection, treatment and compliance of treatment of hypertension for other states of country.The Principal Secretary, Health and Family Welfare, Ms. Anjali Bhawra said that health department would ensure capacity building of the field staff for comprehensive hypertension treatment programme which also covers other non-communicable diseases. She further said that health department is also being conducted the IEC activities in this regard at block and sub-centre level. Among others who were present in the meeting included Dr. B A. Muruganathan, Dr. Prabhdeep Kaur, Scientist E (ICMR), Dr. Abhishek Kunwar WHO, Dr. Gaurav, Vital Strategies, Dr. Bidisha (India Hypertension Management Initiative), Dr. Jaspal Kaur Director Health Services, Dr. GB Singh, Assistant Director, and Dr. Navneet, State Co-ordinator, Vital Strategies.