A study published in The Lancet has revealed that over 100 million people in India suffer from diabetes, accounting for 11.4 percent of the population. An additional 136 million individuals are in a pre-diabetic state, putting them at higher risk. The study which involved 113,000 participants, aged 20 and above, from every state in India, represents the first comprehensive assessment of non-communicable diseases across the country.
Around 9 percent of the population of Jammu and Kashmir have diabetes as per the survey conducted by the Union Ministry of Health. The reason for this is our unhealthy lifestyle. A significant number of people don’t exercise, nor do we eat balanced food. Ditto for the rest of the country. This is why it is important that people change their lifestyles for the better.
The Lancet findings have significantly surpassed previous estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO), which had approximated 77 million cases of diabetes and 25 million cases of pre-diabetes in India.
Diabetes is a serious condition associated with an increased risk of heart attacks, strokes, vision loss, kidney failure, and limb amputations. While there are various forms of diabetes, type 2 diabetes is the most common and is often linked to lifestyle factors, although genetics and ethnicity also play a role.
The prevalence of diabetes varies across different states, with the highest rates observed in Goa, Puducherry, and Kerala. However, the study warns against a potential surge in diabetes cases in states such as Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Arunachal Pradesh, where the prevalence has been relatively lower but shows an increasing trend. This regional disparity calls for tailored strategies and targeted awareness campaigns.
This is apparent from the study itself. It reveals a higher prevalence of diabetes in urban areas compared to rural regions, indicating the influence of lifestyle factors. This finding underscores the need for interventions focusing on promoting healthier lifestyles in urban settings.
Earlier, last month union minister Dr Jitendra Singh, who is also a diabetologist, highlighted that India is at the forefront of diabetes research worldwide. He stressed the importance of preventing diabetes, not only for healthcare purposes but also for nation-building, given that 70 percent of India’s population is under 40 years of age, and the youth will shape the country’s future as prime citizens in 2047. Urgent efforts are needed to enhance prevention strategies, prioritize healthier lifestyles, and ensure widespread access to appropriate healthcare and treatment options. Failure to act swiftly will result in severe consequences for the well-being of millions of Indians and strain an already burdened healthcare system.
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