An Indian nurse carefully collects a blood sample from a policeman using a glucometer during a free diabetic health check-up camp on World Health Day. This personal experience of mine has given me a deep fear of diabetes, as I witnessed the devastating effects it had on my father’s health and our family’s well-being. Despite our efforts to manage the disease, it ultimately led to his untimely death.
Unfortunately, my fears are not unfounded, as a new study reveals that the prevalence of diabetes and prediabetes in India is far higher than previously reported. The study estimates that there are 101 million individuals with diabetes and 136 million with prediabetes in the country. Shockingly, nearly half of the population has raised blood sugar levels, with hypertension and obesity also affecting a significant portion of the population.
These statistics paint a grim picture of India’s escalating non-communicable diseases epidemic. The lead author of the study, Anjana Ranjit Mohan, emphasizes the significant differences in prevalence among different states, regions, and urban and rural areas. The burden of complications from diabetes is a major concern, with millions of people at risk of developing conditions like kidney failure.
Experts like Viswanathan Mohan and Sonia Anand echo these concerns, emphasizing the unprecedented impact on India’s healthcare system. As the number of patients with prediabetes, diabetes, and associated complications continues to rise, the strain on the system will be overwhelming. This is especially true in rural areas, where infrastructure and resources are lacking.
The root causes of India’s diabetes burden are multifaceted, attributed to factors such as dietary habits, lack of physical activity, and environmental risks like air pollution. Additionally, the limited metabolic capacity of individuals in low- and middle-income countries like India puts them at greater risk. These challenges, combined with external stressors like sedentary behavior and poor diets, contribute to the early onset of metabolic and cardiovascular failures.
It’s important to note that the line between communicable and non-communicable diseases is blurred, as they often coexist. Infections, for instance, are closely associated with NCDs, and NCDs increase the risk of infections. Even the recent Covid-19 pandemic has likely left millions more vulnerable to prediabetes and diabetes.
To combat this growing crisis, India urgently needs a well-funded plan that includes input from those who have firsthand experience with diabetes. Apoorva Gomber, a physician-researcher and diabetes advocate, emphasizes the importance of raising awareness and engaging with individuals living with diabetes to develop equitable solutions.
This plan must prioritize the care and prevention of diabetes and its complications among the millions of affected individuals. Strengthening the public health system, making essential technologies and medications easily accessible, and increasing awareness and education about lifestyle changes are crucial steps in tackling this epidemic.
Additionally, India’s nutrition policy should evolve to address the diabetes crisis. Access to nutritious and balanced diets must be ensured for all Indians, with a focus on nutrition literacy, especially among school children. Policy interventions, such as expanding the public distribution system basket, and regulatory measures like front-of-pack labeling can also play a significant role.
It is clear that immediate action is needed to address India’s diabetes burden. By investing in healthcare, building a comprehensive system, and implementing preventive measures, we can strive towards a healthier future for all Indians.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
