PANAJI: Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has raised concern over the growing burden of lifestyle-related diseases in Goa, citing recent National Family Health Survey (NFHS) data, which shows the state recording significantly higher rates of diabetes, hypertension, and obesity compared to the national average.
Speaking in a public health appeal on X, the Chief Minister said the figures should serve as a “warning bell” for the state.
“According to the NFHS data, diabetes in Goa is around 26.4%, while the national average is 11.4%. Pre-diabetic cases stand at 20.3% compared to 15% nationally. Hypertension is at 45.8% in Goa against 35.5% in the country,” Sawant said.
He added that obesity indicators are also high. “General obesity is at 44.4% and abdominal obesity at 51.8%, compared to the national average of 39.5%,” he noted.
Warning about long-term health consequences, the Chief Minister said rising non-communicable diseases are leading to serious complications. “A large number of people are falling prey to diabetes and hypertension, which ultimately leads to severe issues like kidney failure and dialysis,” he said.
Sawant urged citizens to adopt healthier lifestyles and reduce dependency on medication. “If everyone reduces or completely stops daily sugar intake, it will make a massive difference. Even reducing oil consumption by 10% will have a positive impact,” he said.
He also appealed for a shift away from processed and junk food. “We must completely stop consuming processed foods, junk foods, and soft drinks, especially for the sake of our children,” the Chief Minister added.
Highlighting the importance of physical activity, he said, “Regular exercise, yoga, and pranayama are essential.”
Referring to the increasing demand for dialysis facilities in the state, Sawant pointed out the expansion of services in recent years. “Earlier, dialysis units were only at Goa Medical College, and there were just three. Today, there are around 40 locations across PHCs, CHCs, and taluka hospitals, but many are already overflowing,” he said.
He urged early preventive action. “You should never reach a stage where you have to wait for dialysis. We must take precautions ourselves,” he cautioned.
The Chief Minister also highlighted the government’s ongoing wellness initiative, ‘Health with Ayurveda’, which ran from May 5 to June 5 and is being extended for another month from June 5 to July 5.
“More than 20,000 patients have already undergone preliminary check-ups under the programme. Ayurvedic doctors from both government and private sectors have provided dietary guidance and advice on Dincharya and Ritucharya,” he said.
He encouraged citizens to utilise the programme. “Take care of your health with Ayurveda free of cost. Doctors will guide you on diet and daily routine,” Sawant said.
Concluding his message, he called for collective action towards better health outcomes. “We do not want a future where people are dependent on diabetes and hypertension medicines or dialysis. Let us build a healthy Goa and strengthen our Fit India and Fit Goa campaigns,” he said.
