Preventive Medicine Clinics in Hospitals of India: An Opportunity Missed

Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs) are emerging as a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Control of risk factors and early diagnosis and treatment are cost-effective modalities for prevention. To attain this, Preventive Medicine Clinics must become a regular feature in the government hospitals of India. Community Medicine and/ or Family Medicine specialists of medical colleges can establish these clinics. In addition to screening patients for NCDs and their risk factors, these clinics can screen patients who require primary health care and manage them appropriately.