Non-Communicable Diseases in India
Facts:
- Over 60% of all deaths in India are caused by non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases (such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disorders), and cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and stroke. Of these, nearly 55% are premature deaths.
- The World Economic Forum (WEF) estimates that between 2012 and 2030, non-communicable diseases will cost India $4.58 trillion (Rs 311.94 trillion).
- In terms of the prevalence of diabetes, India is second only to China.
- Nearly 6% of the 422 million people with diabetes worldwide live in India, where NCDs account for more than 53% of all fatalities.
State-level disease burden report for India:
- Between 1990 and 2016, the prevalence of ischemic heart disease and stroke in Indians increased by 50%, while the number of people with diabetes increased from 26 million to 65 million.
- The number of patients suffering from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease increased from 28 million to 55 million throughout this time.
NCDs are what?
- NCDs are mostly those illnesses that are linked to stress, a lack of knowledge about a healthy diet, and improper practises. According to estimates, NCDs are the primary cause of death in India, accounting for a startling 60% of all fatalities.
Effects on the economy and population of India:
- increase of fatalities during prosperous years (30-70 years).
- demographic dividend lost.
- Malnutrition may not be the biggest problem; NCDs may.
- Household health spending rises, which later leads to a decline in savings and an increase in poverty.
Actions are taken by the government:
- India created a multi-sector NCD action plan with the goal of halving the number of NCD-related premature deaths globally by 2025.
Enhancing the health care system
- Atmanirbhar Swasth Bharat Scheme: As part of this programme, the government will invest approximately Rs 64,000 crore in rural and urban health and wellness centres (HWC).
- 1,20,000 PHCs are being transformed into HWCs to offer primary NCD care.
Protecting the finances:
PM’s health care programme:
- 100 million of the most vulnerable people are covered by the initiative.
- By extending the scope of primary healthcare to include the screening and diagnosis of NCD including cancer, chronic respiratory illnesses, and CVD, it lowers out-of-pocket health expenses.
To combat indoor air pollution:
- PM Ujjwala Yojana: The prevalence of cancer and chronic lung ailments in women has decreased as a result of 90 million families switching from polluting wood to LPG.
Measures that the government must take:
- Spending on health should reach 8% of GDP.
- offered affordable access to basic health care to all groups of individuals.
- Improve the infrastructure for rural health.
- based on an effective technique for early screening.
Actions required from non-governmental organisations:
- Businesses should establish policies for safe working conditions.
- In their offices, raise awareness of diseases related to stress
- NGOs must advocate for safe working conditions across all industries.
Actions required from People:
- Eat a balanced diet.
- Stay away from developing addictions.
- Stay in shape by practicing yoga, meditation, exercise, or another method.
- To avoid depression, discuss your issues and difficulties with loved ones and close friends.
Doctors and researchers need to take these actions:
- Dependable methods for gathering, exchanging and transferring data
- Create Systems for evaluation and monitoring.
- Share your knowledge with the entire community.
Steps to Take:
- India would become more resistant to upcoming viral pandemics if it meets the SDG target of decreasing one-third of premature deaths caused by NCD. In order to improve its healthcare system, India must implement the Atmanirbhar Swasth Bharat program.
