Non-communicable Diseases in India

NCDs in India In India

NCDs represent 60% of total fatalities. Cardiovascular diseases (coronary heart disease, stroke, and hypertension) account for 45% of all NCD fatalities, followed by chronic respiratory diseases (22%), cancers (12%), and diabetes (3%). Cigarette consumption has been recognized as the foremost risk element linked to NCDs. Around 25% of Indians are at risk of dying from a non-communicable disease before they turn 70.

Reasons for the Increase of NCDs in India? Unhealthy Eating Habits: Move towards processed, high-fat, high-sugar, and low-fibre options. Lack of Physical Activity: Inactive lifestyle resulting from urban development and digital advancements.

Substance Use: Rising use of tobacco and alcohol, particularly among young people. Environmental Elements: Air pollution significantly contributes to long-term respiratory and heart diseases. Insufficient Preventive Healthcare: Low focus on preventive care within the public health system. Limited awareness, insufficient screening, and late detection of NCDs.

Dual Disease Challenge: India confronts both infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases, putting pressure on its already constrained healthcare system.

Economic Disparity: Disadvantaged and marginalized groups have restricted access to quality health services, nutritious food, and educational opportunities. NCDs are increasing even in low-income populations because of dietary changes and a lack of awareness.

Worry over Significant NCDs Load:

Epidemiological Transition: India is experiencing a change from infectious to chronic diseases, including in rural regions.

Numerous areas encounter both infectious illnesses and increasing non-communicable diseases.

Economic and Social Consequences: Significant out-of-pocket costs (OOPE) for extended care.

Impacts efficiency, particularly within the workforce demographic.

Drives numerous families into financial hardship because of extended medical expenses.

Challenges in the Health System: Primary care has historically concentrated on maternal and child health, as well as infectious diseases.

Screening is insufficient, awareness is low, and there is a shortage of trained personnel for managing chronic diseases.

Measures Implemented by the Government of India to Curb NCDs

National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) 2010: The Government of India offers technical and financial assistance to States/UTs under this initiative as part of the National Health Mission (NHM).

Screening through NHM: A community-focused effort aimed at prevention, management, and detection of prevalent NCDs.

Individuals over the age of 30 are prioritized for screening for the three prevalent cancers, namely oral, breast, and cervical.

Testing for these prevalent cancers is a crucial component of service provision within Ayushman Bharat – Health and Wellness Centres.

Awareness Initiatives: Additional efforts to enhance public understanding of cancer and encourage healthy living involve the observance of National Cancer Awareness Day and World Cancer Day.

Fit India Movement: The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports executes it, while different Yoga-related initiatives are conducted by the Ministry of AYUSH.

Eat Right India Initiative: Managed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).

Encourages nutritious eating patterns, decreases in trans fats, sodium, and sugar consumption.

Regulatory Actions: Prohibition of e-cigarettes (2019).

Front-of-package labeling and limitations on unhealthy foods near educational institutions as per FSSAI regulations.

The Way Ahead

For ongoing care and early screening, primary healthcare should be strengthened.

Encourage lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and anti-tobacco initiatives.