India is grappling with a concerning surge in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), as revealed by a recent health report released on Friday. The country is witnessing the fastest increase in cancer cases, according to the 4th edition of the Health of Nation Report by Apollo Hospitals, unveiled on World Health Day 2024. The report paints a stark picture, indicating that approximately one in three Indians are pre-diabetic, two in three are pre-hypertensive, and one in 10 are experiencing depression.
The alarming rise in NCDs in India encompasses a spectrum of health issues, including cancer, diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health disorders. These conditions pose significant challenges to the nation’s healthcare system and have profound implications for public health. Notably, India’s cancer incidence is surging at a rate surpassing global averages, earning it the dubious title of the “cancer capital of the world.”
The report also underscores the potential burden on healthcare resources due to conditions like pre-diabetes, pre-hypertension, and mental health disorders occurring at younger ages. Regular health screenings are highlighted as crucial interventions to address these health concerns. By monitoring blood pressure (BP) and body mass index (BMI) levels through screenings, the risk of cardiac-related ailments can be mitigated, thereby reducing the strain on healthcare facilities.
In India, breast, cervix, and ovary cancers are the most common among women, while lung, mouth, and prostate cancers are prevalent among men. Despite the comparatively lower median age for cancer diagnosis in India, screening rates remain disconcertingly low, as revealed by the hospital’s findings. This highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to promote awareness, early detection, and access to healthcare services to combat the growing burden of NCDs in India.
