Introduction: Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) include cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, hypertension, stroke, cancer, etc. Such diseases mainly result from lifestyle-related factors, such as unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, use of tobacco, etc. Changes in lifestyles, behavioral patterns, demographic profile, sociocultural and technological advancements lead to sharp increase in the prevalence of NCDs. These diseases, by and large, can be prevented by making simple changes in the way people live their lives or by simply changing our lifestyle. Aims and objectives: Central Council of Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Ministry of AYUSH in collaboration with Directorate General of Health Services, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has implemented and executed a program, viz., Integration of AYUSH (Ayurveda) component with National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) program in the identified districts of three states, viz., Bhilwara (Rajasthan), Surendranagar (Gujarat), and Gaya (Bihar), with an aim to cater health care services and to reduce the burden of NCDs by combining the strength of Ayurveda and Yoga.
Materials and methods:This program has been implemented on a pilot basis in three districts of the three states at three district hospitals (DHs), 49 community health centers (CHCs), and 183 primary health centers (PHCs) (71 at Gaya, 37 at Surendranagar, and 75 at Bhilwara). In view of etiology of NCDs' pharmacological and nonpharmacological interventions, lifestyle and Yoga have been advocated. Sixteen common Ayurvedic medicines were identified for the prevention and management of the NCDs. Training to human resource was provided through various training programs before implementation.
Outcomes:The aforesaid program is successfully functional in 52 centers (49 CHCs and 3 DHs) of all the three identified