On 10/11/25 Centre for Integrated Public Health hosted an insightful talk by Dr. Kumar G. S. on the topic “Intergenerational Programming of NCDs in Indians & HeLTI: Disease Trajectory Health Trials Across the Globe.” Dr. Kumar emphasized how non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as obesity and diabetes often originate much earlier than adulthood, tracing back to preconception and early developmental stages. He elaborated on Dr. David Barker’s model, which links early-life nutrition and body mass to long-term health outcomes, suggesting that undernutrition or improper maternal health can “program” the risk of metabolic diseases in offspring. He also discussed the DoHAD (Developmental Origins of Health and Disease) model, highlighting that babies born with a birth weight below 2.5 kg are significantly more prone to developing NCDs later in life. Dr. Kumar explained how the HeLTI (Healthy Life Trajectories Initiative) program integrates such findings into global health strategies by focusing on early interventions, beginning even before conception, to ensure better health outcomes across generations. The lecture concluded with a strong message that preventive healthcare and maternal health awareness are key to breaking the intergenerational cycle of NCDs and promoting a healthier future.
