Dr. Prashant Mathur
Director & Scientist-G

The National Centre for Disease Informatics and Research (NCDIR), Bengaluru is one of its kind of unique institution which utilizes information science for health research as its integral component. This has been amply demonstrated by the evolution of the ICMR National Cancer Registry Program (NCRP) since 1981, which has now blossomed into a vibrant network of multi-disciplinary researchers representing more than 1000 sources of cancer registration across the country. Over the decades, NCRP has provided information on cancer incidence by sites, morbidity patterns, mortality, and patterns of care and survival. It plays a critical role in the country’s efforts towards cancer prevention and control. Similar strategy will be formulated for other areas viz., cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, stroke, mortality etc., keeping in mind the rapidly evolving disciplines of information science, computing, data management, data analysis, storage, retrieval and sharing by promoting ethical practices.

The NCDIR shall strive to translate the data available towards prevention and control of diseases through National as well as State based action plans. It will address research and capacity strengthening in a holistic manner for the health conditions under consideration so that timely collection, analysis and dissemination of results enables action for planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluation of health services and multisectoral actions. Through Disease Informatics approach data from various sources, sectors and levels will be tracked, analyzed and harmonized so as to obtain a 360 degree integrated view on the disease. This will facilitate a comprehensive response for interventions, monitoring, evaluation and surveillance.

In this endeavor strategic partnerships, networking, and stewardship with key national and international stakeholders will be fostered to connect, collaborate, innovate, inspire, share and learn.