CPM ventures to tackle lifestyle diseases

KOZHIKODE: After successfully launching palliative care societies and organic farming at the grassroots level, the CPM has ventured into tackling of lifestyle diseases. The party is planning to forms health clubs in Ponnani area. The target is 1500 plus members and their family members in the first phase. Titled 'Swasthyam', the health card distribution was launched on Sunday.  Area secretary advocate P. K. Kaleemuddeen feels that politicians usually ignore their health and fall prey to lifestyle diseases.

"In the first phase, we are planning to start health clubs in all the 88 branches in Ponnani area. Workouts and Yoga would be taught there. Though it is mandatory for CPM members and families, people from other parties are also welcome to join," he said. With the health card, one member can avail nine crucial medical tests at a cost of just Rs 100, as opposed to the real cost which would be more than Rs 750. "Lifestyle diseases are claiming more lives in the new age, and those with a tight schedule in life hardly care about the disease. Once the party starts implementing it at the grassroots level, more people will definitely come forward," said Dr Riyas K. Yoosaf, one of the experts behind the health card project.