Mysuru Declares War on Lifestyle Diseases with Launch of ‘Swastha Mysuru’ Initiative

Mysuru Gets a Health Boost: “Swastha Mysuru” Initiative Launched to Combat Lifestyle Diseases

Mysuru, Karnataka: In a significant public-private partnership aimed at curbing the rising tide of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs), the Karnataka Health Department has formally joined hands with the HH Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Foundation and Health World India Trust to launch the “Swastha Mysuru” initiative. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in the presence of State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Friday, marking a two-year collaborative mission to transform health outcomes in the historic city.

Modelled on the successful “Healthy Bengaluru” programme, “Swastha Mysuru” seeks to create a comprehensive framework for preventive healthcare. The campaign unites 15 entities, including corporations, hospitals, government agencies, and civil society organizations, in a collective pledge to promote healthier lifestyles among citizens.

A Multi-Pronged Attack on NCDs

The initiative outlines a clear, five-point agenda to address the root causes and management of lifestyle diseases:

• Increased Screening: Expanding access to early detection for NCDs.

• Promotion of Physical Activity: Encouraging an active lifestyle across all age groups.

• Dietary Shifts: Advocating for improved nutrition and healthy eating habits.

• Mental Well-being: Enhancing awareness and support for mental health.

• Youth Focus: Strengthening adolescent healthcare systems.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, inaugurating the initiative at the Wadiyar Centre for Architecture, emphasized the government’s commitment to the cause. “The Health Department is committed to supporting this initiative, hoping it will significantly enhance the health and lifestyle of Mysuru citizens over the next two years,” he stated.

He connected the new campaign to the state’s broader healthcare strategy, noting, “We have already rolled out the ‘Gruha Arogya’ programme across the state, under which individuals above 30 years are screened for diabetes, hypertension, select cancers, and 14 other non-communicable diseases, with free medicines provided. Over one crore people have already been screened.”

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A Collaborative Imperative

Highlighting the critical need for collective action, the Minister pointed out that health and education form the nation’s backbone. He stressed that “public support and socially driven organisations play an important role alongside the government in creating health awareness,” and advised citizens to adopt healthy diets and shun junk food.

The urgency of the mission was underscored by Health World Founder, Nalini Saligram, who presented stark statistics. “Nearly 80% of people suffer from diabetes or heart-related issues, while 40% face cancer risks. If we do not act now, these non-communicable diseases may lead to a major crisis in the future,” she warned.

Pramoda Devi Wadiyar, Chairperson of the HH Srikantadatta Narasimharaja Wadiyar Foundation, expressed confidence in the initiative’s model. “Following the success of the ‘Healthy Bengaluru’ initiative, the Mysuru programme will focus on raising awareness about NCDs,” she said, thanking the Health Department for its support.

Building on a Statewide Foundation

“Swastha Mysuru” is not an isolated project but an expansion of a health movement active in Karnataka since 2022, which has already reached over one million people. By leveraging existing networks like “Gruha Arogya” and the expertise of its partner organizations, the initiative aims to create a localized, sustainable impact in Mysuru, setting a potential blueprint for other cities in the state.

The launch signals a proactive step towards mitigating a national health challenge, placing community partnership at the heart of the strategy for a healthier future.