Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are now the leading cause of death and disability in India. As the healthcare sector adapts to new challenges in 2024, chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, respiratory conditions, and cancer are surging due to rapid urbanization, lifestyle changes, and an aging population. This blog attempts to provide relevant data pointers on NCDs in India and the healthcare trends impacting these diseases.
1. Cardiovascular Diseases (CVDs) in India 2024
Cardiovascular diseases remain the top cause of death in India, contributing to around 28% of total deaths.
A recent study on global burden of diseases reported that over 3 million deaths in India in 2023 were due to cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes. This trend will likely continue into 2024, making heart disease prevention and treatment critical for the country.
Hypertension in India: Hypertension affects roughly 30% of adults in India, posing significant health risks for CVDs. Rising obesity, unhealthy diets, and sedentary lifestyles are major contributors.
2. Diabetes in India: The 2024 Outlook
India is known as the “Diabetes Capital of the World”, with rising diabetes cases presenting a major public health issue.
The International Diabetes Federation (IDF) Diabetes Atlas estimates that 77 million Indians are living with diabetes, projected to rise to 87 million by 2025. This is primarily Type 2 diabetes, driven by unhealthy lifestyle choices, poor diet, and lack of exercise.
Diabetes-Related Complications: Poor diabetes management leads to complications such as kidney failure, heart disease, and retinopathy, increasing the burden on India's healthcare system.
3. Chronic Respiratory Diseases in India 2024
Chronic respiratory diseases, particularly COPD and asthma, are significant contributors to mortality and morbidity in India.
The study also reports that chronic respiratory diseases caused 12% of all deaths in India in 2023, with 18 million people suffering from asthma. Worsening air pollution, both indoor and outdoor, continues to aggravate respiratory conditions in urban and rural areas alike.
Air Quality and Health Impact: Rising levels of pollution in major Indian cities are exacerbating chronic respiratory diseases, driving up healthcare costs and reducing quality of life.
4. Cancer Statistics in India
Cancer cases in India are on the rise, with breast cancer, lung cancer, and cervical cancer leading in terms of prevalence.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) estimated there were 1.5 million new cancer cases in India in 2023. This figure is expected to rise as exposure to risk factors like tobacco use, poor diet, and late-stage diagnoses increases across the country.
Challenges in Cancer Treatment: The availability of early cancer screening and advanced treatment options remains limited in rural areas, contributing to higher mortality rates and treatment delays.
Emerging Non-Communicable Disease (NCD) Trends in India
Aging Population and Healthcare Challenges: India's growing elderly population is contributing to the rising incidence of age-related NCDs, including Alzheimer's disease, osteoporosis, and arthritis. Managing these diseases is becoming a priority for India's healthcare system.
Obesity and NCDs: Obesity rates are climbing, particularly among children in urban areas, leading to early onset of NCDs like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. This double burden of malnutrition is a growing concern in both urban and rural settings.
To combat the growing NCD burden, India must prioritize preventive healthcare through public awareness campaigns on healthy lifestyle choices, early screenings, and risk factor management. Additionally, improving access to affordable treatment and integrating NCD management into primary healthcare services are crucial to reducing morbidity and mortality.
Compiled by team Gratitude Healthcare, India
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