The rate of population growth is one of the highest in the country. In the olden days, a big family depicted prosperity and wealth. This practice has resulted in over-population in towns and villages aggravating congestion, pollution and numerous other health hazards. The couple protection rate, according to a study is just 9 per cent showing the reluctance of the public to resort to birth control and other measures in family planning. But the knowledge and consciousness of health is negligible even among the literate masses.
Education alone can help the people in improving their health status.
The existing health care delivery system is outdated and needs to be reformed to make it people-friendly. In rural areas, for lack of health centres, the only alternative is the traditional methods which needs to be properly developed to meet the needs. Specific areas which need immediate attention are women's and children's health. Gender-bias is prevalent. Children in rural areas are undernourished.