Traditional Medicine Takes Center Stage in WHO's ICD 11 TM Module 2 Launch

The World Health Organization (WHO) is preparing to issue the ICD 11 TM Module 2, Morbidity Codes, which will incorporate data and terminology from Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani systems. The launch event is scheduled for January 10, 2024, in New Delhi, marking a significant step towards standardizing global health classification. The International Classification of Diseases (ICDs) by WHO plays a pivotal role in categorizing diseases globally. However, until now, the classification primarily reflected modern biomedical practices, leaving out crucial data related to Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani (ASU) systems.

This omission prompted collaborative efforts between WHO and the Ministry of Ayush to develop a dedicated module (TM 2) under ICD 11, ushering in a new era of inclusivity.

Strengthening India's Healthcare Landscape and Global Cooperation

The Ministry of Ayush, in conjunction with WHO, has meticulously formulated a categorization of data and terminology for Ayush-based systems. This collaboration aims to fortify India's public healthcare delivery, research, Ayush insurance coverage, and policy-making systems. The inclusion of Traditional Medicine in ICD 11 will not only benefit India but will also serve as a model for other nations looking to integrate traditional medical practices into their healthcare frameworks.

Pradeep Dua, Technical Officer Tradition, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine, Integrated Health Services, WHO, expressed the importance of this initiative during discussions at the Ministry of Ayush. Central Bureau of Health Intelligence (CBHI), functioning as the WHO Collaboration Centre for ICD-related activities, is actively participating in the project, ensuring effective collection and dissemination of data on diseases and mortality.

This collaborative effort signifies a milestone in international healthcare, paving the way for addressing infectious diseases like Malaria and lifestyle ailments such as chronic insomnia through traditional medical perspectives.

To cure, diagnose, and prevent illnesses or preserve well-being, traditional medicine refers to health practices, approaches, knowledge, and beliefs that include manual treatments and exercises, spiritual therapies, and medicines derived from plants, animals, and minerals. These practices can be used alone or in combination.