The research by Madras Diabetes Research Foundation (MDRF)in collaboration with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) focusses on the growing prevalence of diabetes, hypertension, and prediabetes in India. The study emphasises the need for urgent attention and state-specific interventions to address this alarming health crisis.
As per the study, the prevalence of diabetes in India stands at 11.4%. Also, a staggering 35.5% of the population suffers from hypertension, and 15.3% are affected by prediabetes. These statistics show a significant burden of lifestyle diseases in the country.
Increased urbanization as well as the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic have been identified as key factors contributing to India’s rising health challenges. The study highlights how changing lifestyles, including dietary habits, physical inactivity, and stress levels, are causing these diseases.
The study further shows that 28.6% of the Indian population has generalised obesity, which indicates a high prevalence of excess body weight. Additionally, a staggering 351 million individuals in the country have abdominal obesity, which poses significant health risks.
The study further highlights notable variations in disease prevalence across different states in India. Goa has the highest prevalence of diabetes at 26.4%, while Sikkim has the highest burden of prediabetes at 31.3%. These variations press the need for targeted interventions based on the specific health challenges faced by each state.
Recognizing the severity of the situation, researchers recommend urgent state-specific policies and interventions to tackle the rising epidemic of metabolic non-communicable diseases in India. These measures should aim to address the underlying causes of the diseases and promote healthier lifestyles, including improved diet, increased physical activity, and stress management.