In today’s fast-paced world, chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and cancer are on the rise, posing significant health risks to individuals worldwide. These diseases, commonly known as non-communicable diseases (NCDs), are responsible for 41 million deaths annually, accounting for 74% of all deaths globally, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). However, experts emphasize that adopting a healthy lifestyle can play a crucial role in reducing the risks associated with NCDs.
Dr. Vinus Taneja, a Consultant at the Department of Medicine at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, highlights the importance of lifestyle changes, stress management, and regular health check-ups in preventing chronic diseases. He emphasizes the need for a balanced diet, regular physical activity, and early detection and prevention to reduce costs and improve the quality of life for individuals at risk of NCDs.
Dr. Sunil Kumar Chaudhary, a Consultant in Internal Medicine at Fortis Escorts, Okhla Road, New Delhi, underscores the significance of following a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with regular physical activity, to prevent NCDs. He also stresses the importance of maintaining a healthy weight, managing stress, and avoiding harmful habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to bolster the body’s defenses against these diseases.
Recent reports from Apollo Hospitals indicate a concerning trend in India, with three out of four individuals being either obese or overweight. The incidence of obesity has doubled from 9% in 2016 to 20% in 2023, while hypertension rates have also increased from 9% to 13% during the same period. Additionally, the data reveals that a significant portion of the population is either diabetic or prediabetic, with a rising number of younger individuals facing the challenge of cancer.
The ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition’s dietary guidelines for Indians highlight the alarming prevalence of prediabetes among 5-19-year-olds, with projections indicating a significant increase in type 2 diabetes cases in the country. Unhealthy lifestyles characterized by high sugar, salt, and fat intake, coupled with sedentary habits and exposure to environmental factors like air pollution, are contributing to the rise of NCDs in India.
Dr. Kalpana Nagpal, a Senior Consultant in ENT at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, emphasizes the importance of vaccines in preventing diseases and stresses the significance of regular check-ups for early detection of conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and cancer. Timely medical attention for symptoms like lumps, ulcers, and cancer, as well as recommended screenings like colonoscopies and sleep studies for individuals over 40, are crucial in identifying and treating NCDs before they progress.
In conclusion, the prevalence of NCDs is a growing concern globally, but adopting a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risks associated with these diseases. By focusing on a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and preventive healthcare measures, individuals can take proactive steps towards safeguarding their health and well-being in the face of the rising tide of chronic conditions.
