Phenome India-CSIR Health Cohort Knowledgebase (PI-CheCK) (GS Paper 2, Health)
Introduction
The Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has successfully concluded the first phase of the 'Phenome India-CSIR Health Cohort Knowledgebase' (PI-CheCK), a pioneering longitudinal health monitoring project launched in 2023.
Objective and Scope
PI-CheCK focuses on assessing risk factors associated with Non-communicable Diseases (NCDs), specifically cardio-metabolic diseases, prevalent among the Indian population.
This initiative aims to enhance prediction models by integrating genetic and lifestyle factors, thereby improving strategies for disease prevention and management.
Key Features
Participant Enrollment: Nearly 10,000 participants have been enrolled nationwide, contributing extensive health data across various parameters. This comprehensive dataset is pivotal in understanding the epidemiology of cardio-metabolic diseases in India.
Standard Operating Procedure (SOP): CSIR has developed a cost-effective SOP for sample collection, ensuring uniformity and reliability in data acquisition. This methodology enhances the study's robustness and facilitates consistent analysis of health metrics.
Significance
First of its Kind: PI-CheCK represents India's first nationwide longitudinal study focused on cardio-metabolic diseases, emphasizing the need for tailored healthcare interventions based on local epidemiological insights.
Policy Implications: Findings from PI-CheCK are expected to inform evidence-based policies for NCD prevention and healthcare delivery, addressing the growing burden of cardio-metabolic diseases in the Indian context.
CSIR's Role and Legacy
Establishment and Mission: Founded in September 1942 and headquartered in New Delhi, CSIR is funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology. It plays a crucial role in advancing scientific research and technological innovation in India.
Conclusion
The successful completion of PI-CheCK's initial phase marks a significant stride towards enhancing public health strategies in India.
By integrating genetic predispositions with lifestyle factors, this initiative is poised to pave the way for more targeted and effective measures in combating cardio-metabolic diseases, thereby promoting better health outcomes across the nation.
