New Delhi, May 21: Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda addressed a high-level side event on lung health screening during the 79th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland. This event was co-hosted by India, Japan, the Philippines, and Zambia, under the auspices of the ‘Stop TB Partnership.’
Nadda emphasized, “Timely screening, early disease detection, and equitable access to care are the foundation of a robust, people-centered health system.” He noted that strengthening lung health screening is not just a technical issue; it is crucial for saving lives, reducing suffering, alleviating economic burdens, and empowering health systems.
The minister elaborated on the achievements of India’s ‘TB Free India’ campaign. He highlighted that under the National TB Elimination Program, India has implemented the world’s largest screening and early diagnosis initiative. This program reaches vulnerable populations through door-to-door screenings, mobile teams, community campaigns, and targeted programs in high-risk areas.
Nadda stated, “To reduce delays in testing in remote and underserved regions, we are extensively using molecular testing platforms, digital chest X-rays, AI-based interpretation tools, handheld screening devices, and decentralized testing systems.” He stressed that innovation must reach the last person in line.
He mentioned the ‘TB Free India App,’ which features an AI-enabled multilingual chatbot named ‘Khushi.’ This chatbot provides real-time guidance on symptoms, facilities, and the nearest testing centers. The app is user-friendly and accessible on basic smartphones.
The minister noted that the TB Free India campaign has united citizens, institutions, corporates, and communities to support TB patients and their families. He also praised the role of Ayushman Bharat health and wellness centers and frontline health workers.
Nadda called for global collaboration and made several key suggestions. These include integrating lung health into universal health coverage, increasing access to affordable diagnostics and digital tools, strengthening primary healthcare, promoting innovation and technology transfer, and ensuring sustainable financing.
He concluded that the fight against TB can lay the foundation for a strong health system, better screening, a clean environment, good nutrition, and an equitable society. The Government of India is fully prepared to collaborate with governments, innovators, partners, and communities worldwide to advance practical and scalable solutions for lung health screening.
My name is Himanshu Tiwari. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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