Rising Risk of Non-Communicable Diseases in India
Shift in Disease Pattern:
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) now cause ~63% of deaths in india annually.
About 30% of these deaths occur in people under 40 years.
Infectious diseases like malaria, typhoid, and tuberculosis, which were leading causes two decades ago, are now surpassed by NCDs.
Impact of Lifestyle:
Poor diet, lack of sleep, stress, physical inactivity, and junk food consumption have increased NCD risk.
Diseases like heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory disease, previously affecting older adults (50–60), now increasingly affect those under 30.
Key Findings from The Lancet & GBD Report:
By 2023, deaths from NCDs in India surpass infectious disease deaths.
Ischemic heart disease leads with an age-standardized mortality rate (ASMR) of 127.82 per lakh, followed by COPD (99.25) and stroke (92.88).
Mortality from diarrhea, leading in 1990, has dropped significantly.
Life expectancy has increased from 58.5 years (1990) to 71.6 years (2023), while overall mortality rate declined from 1,513 to 871 per lakh.
Urbanization & Modern lifestyle Risks:
Smoking, alcohol consumption, staying up late, and sedentary habits weaken immunity.
Urban lifestyles have accelerated NCD prevalence, increasing the burden on public health.
Expert Recommendations:
Early diagnosis and management of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes are crucial.
Emphasis on healthy diet, physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and alcohol from a young age.
Focus should shift from merely living longer to healthy aging.
Public awareness campaigns and lifestyle interventions are essential to curb rising NCD-related deaths.
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