Thread by @epigiri

The #COVID19 pandemic has imposed catastrophe in the #urban areas. It’s simply an index of urban vulnerability. Poor primary health care services in urban areas & neglect of public health in general are the fundamental reasons resulting in this situation universally. 1 of n

It is merely noticeable now due to the attention attracted by the #pandemic. The long-standing manifestation of urban specific health #inequities are merely getting exposed due to the fatalities attributed due to COVID-19 in urban areas. 2 of N

1 in 3 adults in India have high blood pressure. One in 10 have type 2 diabetes mellitus. The long-standing complications of these two diseases affect millions of Indians. Nearly half of the diabetics are blind by the time they know that they have diabetes. 3 of N

Lack of primary health care services for screening & managing these diseases results in long term adversities. Following healthy lifestyle with better alternatives is a luxury. You simply do not have health friendly urban ecosystem. Stress & pollution add to urban woes. 4 of N

Predominance given to curative healthcare services with neglect of public health adds complex challenges. It’s ironical that surgery for heart attack gets covered by government funded insurance program while treatment for hypertension & diabetes is not equalily prioritized. 5of N

Invest in strengthening skilled #Publichealth workforce & strengthen primary health care services in urban areas. Whether it’s #contacttracing or #NCD screening, they are first responders & saviors. This is common learning and universally applicable globally. #COVID19 N of N

I stress in @the_hindu on why strengthening primary healthcare is imperative as we expect a surge in most urban areas. Short term solutions would not help. What we need are strengthening #publichealth and address health #inequities.