Damak: A recent study reveals that a significant majority of deaths in Nepal, accounting for 71 percent, are attributed to non-communicable diseases. Researchers, who conducted the study, underscore the escalating threat of non-communicable diseases, as discussed during a PEN-Plus program organized by a government hospital in Damak, Jhapa.

The program, coordinated by the Kathmandu Institute of Child Health (KIOCH), aimed to address and manage the risks associated with non-communicable diseases. Prof. Dr. Bhagawan Koirala, Chair of KIOCH, presented data indicating that non-communicable diseases contribute to 71 percent of the total reported deaths. He highlighted the growing concern of unchecked infectious diseases, which pose a significant challenge to the country's healthcare system.

Prof. Koirala further emphasized the potential impact of effectively implementing the PEN-Plus program. He suggested that a combination of early disease diagnosis, timely treatment, and improved access to health insurance, medications, and care for underserved populations could substantially reduce mortality rates caused by non-communicable diseases within the next five to ten years.

Rector of the BP Koirala Institute of Health Sciences, Prof. Dr. Sanjeev Sharma, shared his belief that the implementation of the PEN-Plus program could prevent premature deaths. He assured necessary provisions for the health examination and treatment of patients referred from Damak.

Phanindra Prasad Baral, Chief of the PEN-Plus program under the Department of Health Services, outlined that the initiative, initially piloted in Damak and Bardiya, would eventually expand to other areas.

Regina Bhattarai, Deputy-Mayor of Damak Municipality, encouraged neighboring localities to take advantage of the PEN-Plus program, which has been initiated at Damak Hospital. Collaborative discussions among Damak's mayor, deputy mayor, and representatives from neighboring local levels were conducted regarding testing, treatment, and medication for non-communicable diseases such as heart conditions, diabetes, respiratory issues, cancer, heart attacks, and sickle cell anemia under the PEN-Plus program.