IGNORANCE IS NOT BLISS

Coronary heart disease is rising rapidly in India. Diabetes is also rising alarmingly. These are not diseases of rich people. Villagers and poor people are also dying of these diseases in large numbers. Yet, there remains an attitude of ignorance, denial and sheer pig-headedness about these issues in India. Even highly educated people have a shocking lack of knowledge about health issues. The general public also thinks that most doctors are corrupt and only interested in making money. So there is a severe reluctance to obtain or follow medical advice. There is also a cultural bias against going to see a doctor unless one is very sick. Taking medicines is also considered a stigma. The doctors also share some blame. There is an emphasis on doing tests and avoiding communication with the paqtient in simple language. The government seems more interested in getting votes than in improving health care. This is a recipe for disaster.

All parties need to wake up and work together sensibly. Otherwise India shining will become India dying.

More to follow regarding the task ahead.