Clinico-epidemiological profile findings of the screened population under NPCDCS-Ayush (Integration of Homeopathy along with Yoga): a pilot project.

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major global health challenge, accounting for nearly 74% of deaths worldwide, with the highest burden in low- and middle-income countries. In India, 66% of total deaths are attributed to NCDs, reflecting a rapid epidemiological transition and a dual burden of disease. To address this, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) in 2010, integrating Ayush systems (Homeopathy along with Yoga) to strengthen prevention and early management in 2015. Objectives: To determine the presence and distribution of NCDs through opportunistic screening and to describe their clinico-epidemiological profile and correlates under the NPCDCS-Ayush Integration Project. Methods: A cross-sectional opportunistic screening was conducted from 2015 to 2021 across four districts of India under the NPCDCS-Ayush integration initiative implemented by the Central Council for Research in Homeopathy. Standardized NPCDCS screening tools were used to collect sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral data. Descriptive and inferential analyses were performed to assess NCD prevalence and associated risk factors. Results: A considerable proportion of the screened population (55.3%) was found to be affected by one or more NCDs, particularly hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The most common diagnoses were HTN (39.2%), high-normal/pre-HTN (20.9%), pre-diabetes (9.4%), and diabetes (5.4%). A higher burden of NCDs was observed among middle-aged and elderly individuals, with significant associations noted with physical inactivity, tobacco use, and unhealthy dietary habits. The integration of Ayush services enhanced community participation and facilitated early detection of NCDs, highlighting their potential to strengthen population-based screening and preventive strategies. Conclusion: The study highlights the growing burden of NCDs and demonstrates that Ayush-integrated opportunistic screening is a feasible approach for early detection within India's national NCD control framework. Integration of Ayush services may improve community reach and acceptability, facilitating timely identification of both disease and pre-disease states, and highlighting the need to strengthen community-based screening and targeted health promotion, to reduce long-term NCD burden.