India Sees Increase in Fatalities Due to Non-communicable Diseases: Lancet Research

Main Discoveries

In India, the total NCD death rate for females rose by 2.1% and for males by 0.1% from 2010 to 2019 in comparison to 2000–2010.

The proportion of infants who succumb to a chronic illness before reaching 80 years old was 46.7 percent for females in 2001, 46.6 percent in 2010, and 48.7 percent in 2019.

In 2001, the figure for men was 56 percent; in 2010, it rose to 57.8 percent, and by 2019, it reached 57.9 percent.

What are Non-Transmissible Illnesses (NTIs)?

Concerning: These are long-term illnesses that cannot be spread from one individual to another.

Types: Myocardial infarctions, cerebrovascular accidents, tumors, and diabetes mellitus.

Factors contributing to NCDs in India:

Lifestyle Influences: Unhealthy eating, insufficient exercise, and tobacco and drug use increase NCD rates.

Environmental Factors: Urban growth, an aging population, economic hardship, and evolving dietary habits significantly influence the situation.

Additional factors: Pollution (both outdoor and indoor), ongoing stress.

Significant National Efforts to Address NCDs

National Programme for Prevention and Control of Non-Communicable Diseases (NP-NCD): Initiated in 2010, broadened in 2023, emphasizing early identification, management, and referral for NCDs such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory illnesses, kidney issues, and others.

75/25 Initiative: Started in 2023, seeks to deliver uniform care to 75 million individuals with diabetes and hypertension by 2025.

Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PM-JAY): Offers coverage for advanced NCD treatment and aids in the enhancement of PHCs/Sub-Centres as Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.

Eat Right India Movement: Driven by FSSAI, this initiative encourages healthy eating to lower NCD risk, emphasizing food quality, balanced nutrition, and reducing trans fats.

Fit India Movement: Nationwide initiative aimed at enhancing physical fitness and promoting an active lifestyle, motivating consistent exercise to prevent non-communicable diseases.