The Government of Karnataka has officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Novo Nordisk Education Foundation (NNEF) to launch the ‘Changing Diabetes Barometer’ (CDB) program, aimed at addressing the growing concern of diabetes in the state.
The company in a press statement on Wednesday informed that the signing ceremony was attended by prominent figures including Dinesh Gundu Rao, Dr Naveen Bhat Y (IAS), and Vikrant Shrotriya.
The CDB program will see the establishment of Community Diabetes Centres (CDCs) in district hospitals, sub-district hospitals, community health centres, and primary health centres across Karnataka. The initiative will begin with pilot projects in Bengaluru Urban, Dakshina Karnataka, and Yadgiri. These centres will focus on comprehensive diabetes care, including early diagnosis, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications.
Hon’ble Minister Shri Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasised the state's commitment to improving healthcare services for non-communicable diseases like diabetes, which affects a significant portion of the population. He referenced a recent Indian Council of Medical Research study indicating that India has approximately 101 million people with diabetes and 136 million in pre-diabetic stages.
Shri Harsh Gupta, Principal Secretary of the Health and Family Welfare Department, highlighted the importance of this MoU in raising awareness and developing strategic care for diabetes. He expressed support for the collaboration and its potential impact on the state's healthcare system.
Shri D. Randeep, Commissioner of Health and Family Services, underscored the need for early detection and public awareness about both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes. He stressed that this partnership will enhance diabetes care at the community level and contribute to effective lifestyle modifications.
Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Trustee of NNEF, praised the partnership, describing the CDB program as an extension of NNEF’s 'ACT' approach—focusing on Awareness, Capacity building, and Treatment. He expressed commitment to supporting Karnataka’s healthcare infrastructure and contributing to national policy initiatives aimed at combating diabetes.
The collaboration aims to improve diabetes care through awareness campaigns, training for healthcare professionals, infrastructural support, and educational resources for lifestyle changes.
