Surgical conditions - A neglected aspect of public health: Call to action

ABSTRACT

The burden of surgical conditions is large, though unrecognized. Surgical interventions are cost – effective, but thought to be otherwise. Investments aimed at including surgery at primary care level are affordable. Globally, a momentum is being created to strengthen surgery infrastructure especially for the poor in the low and middle income countries – who bear the burden most. In India, the Association of Rural Surgeons of India, and a body for implementing Lancet Commission of Global Surgery, India are taking lead. A blue print of activities needed to bring surgery on the centre stage of public health in India has been developed. The IPHA can play a catalytic role and use its convening power in getting various associations of public health professionals in India to partner surgeons in this effort. Integration of surgery in public health has the potential to improve equity, access, and universal health coverage.