Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory disorders, and certain cancers are rising rapidly across India — especially in low-income and underserved populations. Recognizing the urgency of this silent epidemic, the Indian Institute of Youth Welfare (IIYW) runs preventive health programs focused on awareness, early detection, and behavioral change related to NCDs.

Our work emphasizes community-level intervention, particularly among women, adolescents, and elderly populations, to reduce risk factors and promote healthier lifestyles.

Objectives

• To raise awareness on NCD risk factors such as poor diet, tobacco use, alcohol, stress, and physical inactivity

• To support early detection and screening through health camps and mobile checkups

• To build community knowledge on diet, exercise, mental health, and routine health monitoring

• To integrate NCD prevention with existing health, sanitation, and livelihood programs

• To promote lifestyle education among adolescents and youth

Key Activities

Health Awareness and Education

• Workshops and campaigns on nutrition, exercise, and healthy habits

• Community sessions on managing blood pressure, sugar levels, and stress

• Adolescent-focused life skill sessions on preventive health and mental well-being

Screening and Early Detection

• Free check-ups for blood sugar, blood pressure, BMI, and cholesterol

• Eye camps, anemia screening, and health risk profiling in rural and slum areas

• Health camps organized in collaboration with PHCs and medical professionals

Integration with Other Initiatives

• NCD awareness integrated with women’s health, sanitation, and livelihood programs

• Community health workers and SHG leaders trained as health ambassadors

• Linkages with government health schemes for referrals and follow-up care

Target Groups

• Adolescent girls and boys (through school and village-based sessions)

• Women and mother-headed households

• Elderly individuals in rural and low-income communities

• Slum populations with limited access to routine health services

Impact

• Hundreds of individuals screened through free health camps and checkups

• Improved awareness on lifestyle diseases and preventive care

• Empowered women and SHG members acting as peer educators and health promoters

• Strengthened community linkages with health facilities and local doctors