The Government of Goa has announced the renewal of its Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Novo Nordisk Education Foundation (NNEF) to continue the 'Changing Diabetes Barometer (CDB) program.

The renewed collaboration will see the development of Goa's first-ever foot care clinic for individuals living with diabetes, in addition to ongoing diabetes awareness, screening, and medical education programs.

Initiated over a decade ago, the CDB program focuses on creating awareness, providing support for diabetes care, and enhancing capacity in the state. The new MoU emphasizes the state's commitment to prioritizing health, particularly in the context of the prevalent diabetes concern.

Vishwajit Pratapsingh Rane, Secretary Health, Government of Goa, commended the efforts, stating, "The ongoing association with NNEF for the last 15 years has been instrumental in acknowledging the prevalence of diabetes in the state and for taking various measures to reduce the burden of this disease."

As part of the collaboration, Goa plans to launch a digital diabetes registry for effective monitoring of the disease and targeted awareness campaigns. The state aims to introduce transformative healthcare initiatives, striving to make Goa a center of excellence in healthcare.

Louise Sevel Lundstrom, Counsellor (Health), Royal Embassy of Denmark, expressed pride in the initiative, aligning with the Indo-Danish strategic partnership focused on overall health and wellness.

Dr. Geeta Kakodkar, Director, Health Service, Government of Goa, highlighted the importance of monitoring blood sugar levels for individuals with diabetes and those in pre-diabetic conditions. The introduction of a foot care clinic and ophthalmology clinic aims to address complications associated with uncontrolled diabetes.

Vikrant Shrotriya, Managing Trustee, NNEF, stated, "This MoU is a part of NNEF’s unique ‘ACT’ initiative – increasing Awareness, building Capacity, and elevating Treatment across Goa."

The collaboration includes the establishment of community diabetes centers, a foot-care clinic, and the organization of mega diabetes camps for awareness and screening. The focus also lies on capacity building through comprehensive training for state doctors and diabetes experts.

The program underscores the joint commitment to combatting diabetes and contributing to the enhancement of primary healthcare infrastructure in Goa.