Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC)

A recent study by the Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC) has, for the first time, simultaneously estimated the daily salt and iodine consumption levels of adults in India. The study also examined the impact of World Health Organization (WHO) recommended salt intake levels on iodine consumption and adequacy in the population.

Key Point: Balancing salt reduction with iodine sufficiency is critical for public health interventions in India.

About the Centre for Chronic Disease Control (CCDC)

• Established: 2000

• Type: Independent, not-for-profit biomedical research organization

• Location: New Delhi

The CCDC’s main aim is to reduce the burden of chronic diseases in India and other low- and middle-income countries through:

1. Surveillance of chronic disease trends

2. Capacity building for health professionals

3. Translational research in cardio-metabolic diseases

Key Point: CCDC bridges research and public health action to tackle non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Recognitions and Collaborations

• Recognized as a Scientific & Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) by the Department of Scientific & Industrial Research (DSIR), Ministry of Science & Technology

• WHO Collaborating Centre for surveillance, capacity building, and translational research in cardio-metabolic diseases

• Designated as a Centre of Excellence (CoE) by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)

• Registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 1976 (FCRA)

Key Point: These recognitions enable CCDC to conduct national and international research collaborations.

Focus Areas of Research

The CCDC primarily focuses on chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including:

• Cardiology

• Diabetes and metabolic disorders

• Vascular diseases

• Cancers

• Mental health

It also conducts basic science research in diet, nutrition, and cardiac biochemistry, linking clinical research with public health policy.CCDC’s research supports evidence-based interventions to reduce chronic disease burden.

Significance of the Recent Study

The study is significant because it:

1. Highlights the importance of monitoring salt and iodine intake simultaneously

2. Provides evidence to ensure adequate iodine consumption while promoting salt reduction

3. Guides public health policies and dietary guidelines

4. Supports WHO’s global targets for salt reduction without compromising iodine sufficiency