Talking about this year’s World Health Day theme — Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures — which emphasises maternal and newborn health, Dr Naresh Trehan acknowledges that the focus on inclusivity in healthcare has been delayed, but is now gaining momentum. He observes that India is making consistent progress in improving healthcare from childbirth through to old age, ensuring health security for all. He points out that the country has done commendable work in enhancing maternal and child health across prenatal, delivery, and postnatal phases.
The Rising Threat of NCDs
Dr Trehan expresses concern over the increasing burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in India, particularly cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which account for over half of all NCD-related deaths. He explains that with India’s large population, even small percentage increases translate into massive numbers. According to him, addressing NCDs requires greater public awareness, as prevention is largely driven by individual behaviour rather than medical intervention. He emphasises that doctors can guide and monitor, but it is the public that must adopt healthier lifestyles to curb this rising trend.
A Vision for Inclusive Healthcare
Looking ahead, Dr Trehan asserts that the primary aim of the healthcare sector must be to guarantee every Indian citizen access to decent healthcare, describing it as a fundamental right. He highlights two major priorities: managing the rising incidence of NCDs and reducing the disease burden from communicable illnesses through improved sanitation and access to clean drinking water. He believes that by addressing both areas simultaneously, India can build a significantly healthier population in the years to come.
Recognition Rooted in Care
Medanta Hospital too is contributing to enhancing the quality of healthcare in the country. It has been once again named among the world’s best by Newsweek International, which annually surveys hospitals across 28 countries. Dr Trehan notes that the hospital has been recognised as India’s top private hospital for six consecutive years. He attributes this consistent ranking to Medanta’s unwavering commitment to prioritising patient care over business objectives. He adds that such recognition serves as both an honour and a validation of the team’s sustained efforts to deliver quality care at an affordable cost.
