A fresh study project, the Goa Longitudinal Cohort Study, 2025, has been launched to better comprehend the aetiology and trends of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The study, carried out by the Centre for Cancer Epidemiology (CCE) of Tata Memorial Hospital in collaboration with the Department of Health Services of Goa, is planned to monitor the development and evolution of NCDs systematically throughout the course of a decade.

Key Highlights:
Long-Term Monitoring of NCDs:

• The study will follow one lakh adults aged 25-70 years for 10 years.

• It will assess the impact of early interventions like lifestyle modifications on NCD risks.

Focus on Diverse Groups:

• Recruits will be individuals from rural and urban communities.

• Priority areas are Valpoi, Canacona, and Sanquelim villages.

Key Health Parameters Monitored:

• Medical histories, lifestyle factors, genetic susceptibilities, and environmental exposures will be investigated.

• Health measures such as blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose will be followed longitudinally.

Growing NCD Burden in Goa:

• Cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory disorders, and cancer are on the upswing in Goa.

• These conditions are more prone to be linked to lifestyle and environmental determinants and must be tackled with immediate intervention as well as evidence-based policies.

Quotes by Officials:
Vishwajit Rane, Health Minister, Goa:
"From the research, the primary goal is to determine risk factors for non-communicable diseases and explore how intervention at an early stage, such as lifestyle change, can reduce risks. The research will help in developing precise prevention measures.

The Goa Longitudinal Cohort Study is expected to yield significant data to guide policymakers to create an effective health intervention for the prevention and control of NCDs. With the understanding of the underlying causes of the diseases, researchers expect to guide public health policies that result in better health outcomes among individuals in Goa.